By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State on Saturday laid wreath on the tombs of the unknown Soldiers to mark the Armed Forces Rememberance Day in Makurdi.
The Deputy Governor, Engr Benson Abounu, the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Mr Titus Uba, the Chairman Benue State Council of Chiefs and Tor Tiv the 5th, Prof. James Ayatse as well as Chairman, Nigeria Legion of Ex- serviceman, Benue State Rtd Col. Sebastin Adawa also laid wreaths.
Speaking to Journalists at the IBB Square, Makurdi venue of the ceremony, Governor Ortom appreciated the Fallen Heroes over the supreme sacrifices they had made.
Ortom who appealed to Nigerians to support the immediate families to enable them meet their basic needs, also promised his administration’s continued support to the families they had left behind.
The Governor contended that the Fallen Soldiers were breadwinners of their families, adding that now that they were no more the families are facing economic hardship, hence the need to support them.
Ortom who pointed out that the sixty million naira welfare package he approved for the families of 120 Armed Personnel who died in active service in the state since 2017 to date was not enough, promised to do more.
He urged those still in active service not to be discouraged by the pains they are passing through towards maintaining peace and unity of the nation but they should continue to do their best to protect the sovereignty of Nigeria.
The Governor prayed to God to grant the souls of departed fallen heroes eternal rest.
Highlight of the ceremony included the inspection of the guard of honor by the Governor and releasing of pegeons as a mark of peace in the state and country and 21 guns salute in honour of the Fallen Soldiers.
Prayers were also offered for the souls of the departed heroes, their families, Nigerian Leaders and for peace in the country.
