Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has insisted that his state has no need for Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore floating a security outfit, in as much he is not against it operating in other states.
Ortom said this while reacting to a statement by the Fulani socio-cultural association, where it announced that its security outfit, Miyetti Allah Vigilante, would operate nationwide.
However, in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Trever Akase, the governor said Miyetti Allah has no constitutional right to establish a nationwide security outfit.
He said, “Benue does not need the Miyetti Allah vigilante. The state government is working with conventional security forces and has already established a vigilante group at the state, council and ward levels. This is evident in the ongoing recruitment of personnel for community policing, who will soon be trained as recommended by Inspector General of Police (IGP).”
He therefore asked that officials of Miyetti Allah be arrested and prosecuted in the quest to end banditry in the country.
In the spirit of Sallah, Ortom admonished the Muslim faithful to commit themselves to Prophet Mohammed’s injunction on peace, tolerance and charity.
He further called for sustained sacrifice, encouraging Benue people to always place the state and country above personal interests, to complement government’s efforts in building the society of their dreams.
The governor also urged the people to take advantage of the COVID-19 lockdown, which made them to spend more time with their families, to promote values that seek to guide the younger generation against societal ills.
In another development, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), yesterday, arrested a suspected gang leader known as Asaaghar Igye in Zaki Biam, Ukum Council of Benue State.
Igye was fingered in the killing of the district head of Kundav, Chief Awua Alabar, on July 21, 2020, at the deceased’s Ukum residence.
The DAILY VENDOR gathered that the joint military operation stationed at Zaki Biam and Jootar in Ukum responded to yesterday’s distress call from some locals who sighted the suspect.
The troops were said to have quickly moved in and arrested him.
The Commander of the OPWS, Major Gen. Adeyemi Yekini, said he could not comment on the arrest but directed journalists to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Information Department for further enquiries.
