HRH John Elaigwu Odogbo is a traditional ruler of the Idoma people, currently holding the title of Och’Idoma of Idoma in Benue State, Nigeria. Pastor Elaigwu was born on 27th March 1969 as the 5th child to the family of Mr. ELAIGWU EKOJA in Obagaji, the headquarters of AGATU Local Government Area of Benue State. The Ekojas were a strict family, and Odogbo was raised with a strong sense of tradition and culture.
He received his formal education and has demonstrated a keen aptitude for learning throughout his school years. Comrade Past Elaigwu, Odogbo Obagaji John is a graduate of the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University Zaria (1994) with B.Sc. honours in accounting. As a keen scholar, His Royal Highness has since gone on to achieve further certification and accolades. He possesses among others: –
- Master in Business Administration (2012) from Benue State University.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Education (2015) from National Teacher Institute.
- Sc. Accounting and Finance, Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
- Ph.D. (in view) in Accounting from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.
- He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCITN)
- Fellow Certified National Accountants of Nigeria, (FCNA)
- Associate member of Nigeria Institute of Management.
- A Group Pastor (Pentecost Group) Deeper Life Bible Church.
In between achieving these laurels, Pastor Elaigwu has worked in various fields, gaining valuable experience and knowledge and making valuable contributions to national life. Comrade Pastor Elaigwu has been running his professional career with the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS where he worked for 23 years and rose to the position of Assistant Director. He is a respected leader and figure in the Idoma community, known for his dedication to preserving and promoting the culture and heritage of the Idoma people.
In his role as Ochidoma, Odogbo has worked tirelessly to promote the well-being of the Idoma people, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic development. He has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of the Idoma culture and has played a key role in organizing traditional festivals and ceremonies.
Under Odogbo’s leadership, the Idoma community has seen significant progress and development. He has been able to bring the community together, fostering unity and cooperation among the people. He’s also been able to attract government attention to the plight of the people and attract development to the area.
In addition to his work as Ochidoma, Odogbo is also a respected member of the larger Nigerian traditional rulers body, where he actively participates in the resolution of inter-ethnic and national issues.