*PRESS RELEASE*
*For Immediate Release*
*Date: 18th May, 2026*
*AIYA Clarifies Purpose of Meeting with Och’Idoma, Reaffirms Commitment to Agatu’s Peace and Unity*
_Oturkpo, Benue State_ – The Agatu Indigenous Youth Association (AIYA) has issued a clarification on the purpose of its delegation’s meeting with His Royal Majesty, Agaba-Idu Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John, Och’Idoma of Idoma Kingdom, held on Monday, 18th May 2026.
In a statement posted on the association’s official Facebook page, AIYA Convener/National President, Comr. Ochokwunu Daniel Edor, said the meeting was convened solely on the basis of two letters written by AIYA to HRM regarding insecurity in Agatu, peacebuilding efforts, and the activities of Operation Whirl Stroke deployed in Agatu Local Government Area.
“HRM invited us after he received our letters to address us on the requests and prayers outlined in the two letters. He poured out his wisdom and we are ready to work with him to ensure peace and security return to Agatu and her environment,” the statement read.
AIYA stressed that HRM did not invite the association on the issue of any Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or alleged ceding of land, contrary to claims circulating on social media. The association also dismissed insinuations that AIYA is “just a WhatsApp group, a babies’ group, or a political movement.”
“We are a group of individuals with a shared belief in the oneness of Agatu. We value respect for authorities and traditions. We don’t work with hearsay; we investigate and verify with evidence before we air or agitate on any matter that concerns Agatu and her people,” the statement continued.
AIYA cautioned against attempts to undermine HRM’s invitation to interface with the association, warning that tagging it as “political, selfish, or manipulative” does a disservice to the peace process.
The association further addressed the Agatu West Youth President and his EXCO, stating that AIYA did not go to HRM on their behalf to discuss allegations of MOU or any other opinion they may hold. “You have the right to go to HRM, you also have your district heads, 3rd class chief and all the clan heads to inquire and consult on this matter,” the release noted.
For transparency, AIYA stated that the letter of petition that warranted HRM’s invitation is attached to the Facebook post for members and the public to review.
The statement was signed by Comr. Ochokwunu Daniel Edor, Convener/National President, on behalf of AIYA delegates led by Michael Emmanuel Obiabo.
*END*
*Contact:*
Agatu Indigenous Youth Association (AIYA)
[For enquiries, refer to the official AIYA Facebook page]
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