By Adeleye Kunle
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State yesterday demanded that the Federal Government account for the $1 billion security funds jointly contributed by the 36 states of the federation to fight insurgency, which is contributing to the country’s worsening insecurity.
The Governor asked, prior to presiding over the State Security Council meeting in Makurdi, “What have they done with the $1 billion the Governors Forum gave on behalf of the local governments for security?”
“That sum is enormous. What have they done with the money that terrorists will use to kidnap citizens with no intention of rescuing them? Terrorists threatening to kidnap our President is even more concerning and unthinkable. If that happens, we will no longer have a country.
“The primary responsibility of any responsive government is to protect people and property.” It is unacceptable that innocent Nigerians are left at the mercy of vicious terrorists. This cannot be allowed to continue.”
The Governor expressed regret that Nigeria, the continent’s colossus, had become helpless to address its security challenges, saying that “it is very painful to see the country where it is today.”
Ortom stated that security issues should be of concern to everyone, emphasizing that they should not be tailored along political lines, as the protection of citizens’ lives and property should be prioritized.
While praising the sacrifices of security officers in the state, he also acknowledged the difficulties that security officers face in carrying out their duties.
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