TheCable

Samuel Ortom, Benue governor, says President Muhammadu Buhari did the right thing by issuing a directive to security operatives to shoot anyone illegally in possession of AK-47 rifles.

President Buhari issued the directive on Wednesday through Garba Shehu, his senior special assistant on media and publicity.

Ortom described critics of his crusade against the use of AK-47 rifles by herders as “sycophants”.

The governor spoke on Thursday in Makurdi when Adamu Kyuka, chairman, governing board, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), paid him a courtesy visit.

Ortom said the president’s order would reduce criminality, banditry and attacks by armed herders in Benue and across Nigeria.

He said the president’s order will also make the communities safer for displaced farmers to return to their ancestral homes.

“I commend Mr President for his recent order against those bearing AK47 rifles,” Ortom said.

“This I am sure will reduce the high rate of criminality, banditry and militia herdsmen attacks on our farming communities.

“I don’t only criticise. I also commend where necessary. And I want to say shame on those sycophants who were bashing me for writing to Mr President because he has finally heeded my advice.”

Ortom said Nigeria belongs to all citizens, adding that the unity and stability of the country can only be guaranteed through justice and equity.