Confusion Trails Nullification of Tinubu, Akume’s Chieftaincy Titles as IATC Denies Involvement 

The Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC) has denied reports that it nullified chieftaincy titles recently bestowed on President Bola Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the Igede Agba celebrations in Oju Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Adegbe Uloko, the IATC described the claims as “mischievous and misleading,” clarifying that neither Tinubu nor Akume was ever on the approved list of honourees submitted by the Igede Intermediate Area Traditional Council.

The controversy stems from the September 7 ceremony, where the Adiharu of Igede, HRH Oga Ero, went ahead to confer titles despite an embargo placed by the IATC on all chieftaincy conferments.

The council had directed the First-Class Chief as far back as August 19, 2025, to suspend such activities, a decision reinforced in an official declaration on September 2.

According to the IATC, its order was not targeted at the Igede Council alone but applied to all Intermediate Area Traditional Councils under its jurisdiction.

“It is false, baseless, and malicious to suggest that the Council nullified titles never presented before it,” the statement said.

The episode has reignited tensions among stakeholders from the Idoma and Igede-speaking groups in Benue South, who remain divided over the extent of autonomy local councils should exercise under IATC authority.

The Adiharu’s decision, seen by some as defiance, has fueled debates about the balance of power within the traditional hierarchy.

Observers warn that the clash of directives risks undermining unity among the Idoma nation, especially at a time when the traditional institution seeks to strengthen its influence in governance and peacebuilding across the state.

The IATC cautioned individuals and groups against sponsoring misinformation capable of inflaming the situation, urging the press to avoid being used as a tool to erode the integrity of traditional authority.

Reaffirming its position, the council said the matter is being addressed internally in accordance with Benue State laws and Idoma customs.

It pledged to safeguard the dignity of the throne while promoting peace and development across Benue and Nigeria.