Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has placed a ban on all forms of campaigns by his appointees, either for themselves or for others ahead of the 2023 elections.
The Governor who announced the ban while speaking to journalists on Wednesday at Benue Peoples House, Makurdi, the Benue state capital, said it was too early for any of his appointees to engage in campaigns or political consultations, as the 2023 polls are still two and a half years away.
The Governor who also urged those calling him to contest for the presidency to desist from doing so, saying that his administration is committed to the mandate of delivering good governance to the people and does not need to be distracted.
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Governor Ortom said any of his appointees who fails to obey the directive will have to resign and concentrate on campaigning for 2023, stressing that it would amount to conflict of interests to remain in government and be campaigning for political positions.
The Governor directed Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Ijohor, SAN, to communicate the decision to all appointees.
Speaking further, Governor Ortom who identified insecurity as the major challenge confronting the nation urged the Federal Government to act fast and address the insecurity in parts of the country.
He stated that in dressing the challenge, the federal government must begin with the arrest of all armed herdsmen and other individuals terrorizing innocent Nigerians as the first step to restore peace and guarantee the safety of lives and property.
He said only sincerity of purpose by the Federal Government in tackling the menace of herdsmen attacks could calm tensions and build confidence among Nigerians.
Governor Ortom who noted that Benue was the first among states to enact a law prohibiting open grazing of animals and introduce ranching as an alternative also expressed delight that the policy is being embraced by other states as best measure to end the nomadic pattern of animal husbandry which has led to the incessant conflicts between herders and farmers across the country.
“Benue state is frustrated with what is happening. Enough is enough. Federal Government must act quickly else they are calling for anarchy and lawlessness,” he said.
