Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State Wednesday banned his appointees from campaigning either for themselves or for others ahead of the 2023 elections.
The governor also disclosed that the last result of his COVID-19 test Tuesday came out negative.
He spoke with journalists to announce his resumption of work Wednesday at the Benue Government House Makurdi.
Ortom said it was too early for any of his appointees to engage in campaigns or political consultations, as the 2023 polls were still two and a half years away.
He stated that his administration has the mandate to deliver good governance to the people and does not need distractions.
He warned that any of his appointees who failed to obey the directive and continue to campaign will be shown the way out of his government.
He stressed that it would amount to conflict of interests to remain in government and be campaigning for political positions.
He directed Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Ijohor, SAN, to communicate the decision to all appointees.
Speaking on security, Governor Ortom called on the Federal Government to act fast and address the insecurity in parts of the country, beginning 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.
“The President had promised to be for everyone but he has not demonstrated this.
“There is general insecurity propelled by herdsmen. Leaders of Miyetti Allah must be arrested for peace to reign in this country.
“What is going on is wrong and has potential to divide the country. “If anyone is telling Mr. President that all is well, they are merely deceiving him”,the Governor said.
He lauded Governors of the South West for the bold step to also adopt ranching in their domain, noting that it remains the best practice for animal husbandry.
Governor Ortom expressed delight that Benue was the first among states to enact a law prohibiting open grazing of animals and introducing ranching as the alternative which is now being embraced by other states as the best measure for ending the nomadic pattern of animal husbandry, which often leads to conflicts between herders and farmers.
He commended the Benue people for their prayers and support while he was away in isolation.
