Nigerian Journalists under the aegis of Freelance Journalist Federation (FJF) has described as laudable, the visit of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iornem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State to Otukpo following the unfortunate security situation in the area.
The Governor’s visit was also intended to secure the release of 14 abducted passengers enroute Otukpo from Makurdi via a Benue Links and to comiserate with the family of those that lost their lives in the incident.
In a press release signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Richard Oduma Abah, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, FJF said, the visit of the Governor to Otukpo was in line with his marching orders to security agencies and the release of all abducted passengers shows his unwavering commitment to tackle insecurity headlong.
“The release of all 14 passengers who were cowardly abducted on their way to Otukpo within few days of the incidence has placed the Governor in a league far above his detractors. Those who want to create the impression that the Governor is not doing enough in terms of insecurity should be ashamed of themselves.
“With this prompt arrest and the critical information information coming out from the investigations currently ongoing, it’ll just be a matter of days before the complex security situation around Otukpo and its environs will be addressed holistically.
“Indeed the people of Otukpo and all stakeholders must be commended for standing firm with the Governor and not taking the laws into their hands. All hands must be on deck as unity of purpose is the only panacea for lasting and sustainable peace”, the release added.
The group pleged their unalloyed support and honest reporting of all government activities and programs but urged the to continue working tirelessly with relevant security agencies regardless of the criticisms around him.
“As responsible corporate citizens, we pledge our total support not just in the fight against insecurity in Benue State but also to ensure honest, fair and balanced reportage of state events.
“It is also our honest appeal that the Governor will continue to engage all relevant security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the safety of Benue people and their businesses.
“Benue citizens must also understand that security is the collective responsibility of all and they must always be vigilant and ready to cooperate with security agencies through intelligence sharing.
“This patroitic service will go a long way in complimenting the tireless efforts of government and securing agencies in the fight against insecurity for the good of citizens”, the release concluded
