In a heartfelt demonstration of solidarity and compassion, Nigerian music icon Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, recently paid a condolence visit to the Och’Idoma, the paramount ruler of the Idoma Nation, in response to the devastating attacks on Akpa/Otobi communities in Benue State. Accompanied by his fiancée, Hon. Natasha Osawaru, 2Baba expressed deep sorrow over the tragic events that claimed numerous lives and displaced many residents.​

During the visit, 2Baba conveyed his condolences to the traditional ruler and the entire Idoma community, stating, “It’s saddening over the attack.” He emphasized his commitment to supporting the affected communities through his philanthropic organization, the 2Baba Foundation. The foundation has already conducted an assessment of the damage caused by the attacks and is collaborating with the Benue State Government to establish a support system for the victims.​

Mr. Joseph Anejo Tommy, Head of Projects at the 2Baba Foundation, revealed that the organization is dedicated to providing assistance within its capacity as part of the 2Face Newphase humanitarian drive. This initiative aims to offer relief and support to those affected by the attacks, demonstrating 2Baba’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian work and his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.​

The visit to the Och’Idoma serves as a testament to the power of compassion and solidarity in times of crisis. By leveraging his influence and resources, 2Baba continues to play a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by communities affected by violence and displacement. His actions underscore the importance of collective efforts in fostering healing and rebuilding in the aftermath of such tragedies.​

This recent initiative is not an isolated act of philanthropy by 2Baba. In 2017, he donated assorted relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons in Makurdi, Benue State, following devastating floods that displaced over 100,000 people. Accompanied by his wife, Annie Idibia, and friends, he visited the IDP camp to deliver the materials personally. He stated that his prompt response was aimed at giving hope to the displaced persons and ameliorating their hardship. He assured them that he and his friends would send more relief materials to cushion their sufferings. ​

Moreover, 2Baba has consistently used his platform to advocate for support for victims of natural disasters. In the wake of the 2017 Benue floods, he urged fans to aid the victims by donating relief materials. He announced that a truck would be leaving Lagos for Benue with relief materials and encouraged Nigerians to ‘touch a life’ by contributing what they could. ​

The recent attacks on communities in Benue State have been particularly devastating. In April 2025, at least four people were reportedly killed in a communal clash between communities in Ohimini and Otukpo Local Government Areas. The clash led to the burning of several houses and destruction of many motorcycles. The violence erupted when some people from the side of Ohimini opened fire on those from Otukpo in an attempt to stop workers from developing a layout which they had farmed. ​

In another incident, three individuals suspected to be herdsmen were arrested in connection with deadly attacks that claimed 11 lives in the Otobi community, located in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the renewed violence and called for urgent action from security agencies to apprehend those behind the killings. He confirmed that security forces had been dispatched to the affected areas and that three suspects were taken into custody. ​

In response to the escalating violence, the Idoma National Youth Forum, a community-based organization, is working closely with the Och’Idoma palace, stakeholders, and security agencies to improve the security situation in the local government area. The forum has also been instrumental in mobilizing relief materials and basic services as interventions for internally displaced persons and affected communities.​

2Baba’s visit to the Och’Idoma and his commitment to supporting the victims of these attacks highlight the crucial role that influential individuals can play in times of crisis. By leveraging his platform and resources, he is not only providing immediate relief but also drawing national attention to the plight of affected communities. His actions serve as a call to action for others to contribute to the healing and rebuilding process in Benue State.​

While the state continues to grapple with the aftermath of these attacks, the involvement of prominent figures like 2Baba offers a glimmer of hope. His dedication to humanitarian work and his desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by violence underscore the importance of compassion and solidarity in overcoming adversity.​