The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has condemned the broad daylight attempt to cut short the life of the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, describing the news as shocking and a rude awakening.
Governor Ortom narrated how he escaped an attempt on his life by gunmen, suspected to be herdsmen, who attacked him on his farm Saturday.
But, reacting to the unfortunate incident, Governor Kayode Fayemi Governor of Ekiti and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, in a statement, said the Forum vehemently condemns the act in its entirety.
The statement entitled ‘Attempt On Governor Ortom’s Life’ which was personally signed by Fayemi, also described the act as cowardly, and wicked.
“The news of the broad daylight attempt to cut short the life of the Governor of Benue State, Dr Samuel Ortom, is shocking and a rude awakening.
“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) empathizes with the governor and the people of Benue State on this sad, cowardly, and wicked plan and vehemently condemns the act in its entirety.
“All hands must be on deck to uncover the identities of those involved in this heinous crime.
“The NGF wishes to state categorically that the attempt to make Benue State ungovernable is unacceptable and will fail woefully.
“Only recently the brother of one of the former governors of the state was mowed down in cold blood. This dishonourable and shameful act of resorting to violence, for whatever reason, to eliminate citizens of Benue State by brutal means must not continue.
“The NGF as a platform for all the 36 Governors will continue to encourage its members to stand firm in the service of their people regardless of the evil machinations of those who do not wish Nigeria well.
“Evil will not be allowed to triumph over good, not in Benue and not anywhere in this country.
“While all governors will continue to pray for Governor Ortom, the NGF wishes to draw the attention of all evil doers that not only will they continue to fail in their wicked acts, but they will also definitely be traced and punished for their crimes, no matter how long it takes.
“Once again, the NGF prays for Governor Ortom and wishes him long life as his safety and that of all the people of Benue State continue to be paramount to the NGF” reads the statement.
By Chidi Ugwu,
The Independent Newspaper