Why Idoma Has Not Produced a Benue Governor

Idoma politicians have repeatedly contested Benue’s governorship but have never won because the state’s electoral dynamics are dominated by the larger Tiv and, to a lesser extent, the Igede groups. The Tiv, who make up about 55 % of Benue’s population, control most of the party structures, vote banks and patronage networks, giving them a decisive advantage in primary elections and general polls. Additionally, internal divisions within the Idoma community, limited financial resources, and occasional marginalisation in party primaries have prevented a unified, well‑funded Idoma candidacy from securing the nomination and the votes needed to become governor. Consequently, despite occasional... Views Nigeria