Oju

Oju is a town in southern Benue State and the headquarters of Oju Local Government Area, established in February 1976. The LGA sits on Benue State's southern edge bordering Ebonyi State, at an average elevation of about 163 m. The Igede people are the dominant ethnic group and speak the Igede language; Christianity and traditional African religion are both practiced locally. Around 80% of residents farm, and the area's fertile land produces yams, rice, beniseed, guinea corn, palm produce, soya beans, cassava, millet, maize, and groundnut, with deposits of bauxite and limestone also recorded. Oju functions as a market centre for these surrounding rural farming communities.

The climate is tropical with a rainy season from April to October.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Makurdi Airport (MDI), about 130 km north.

By Car / Road

Oju is accessible by road from Otukpo (1 hr) and Obudu (Cross River State).

Motorcycle taxis are available.

• Oju Market — a local market
• Traditional Igede villages — in the surrounding area

Igede cuisine.

Water, soft drinks, and palm wine.

Basic guesthouses.

The market sells produce, palm oil, and household goods.

• Otukpo — 1 hr north
• Ugbokolo — 30 mins north-east
• Obudu — 1.5 hrs east (Cross River State)