Benue state Governor, Samuel Ortom, has said that the state is now witnessing relative peace after the Nigerian Army deployed troops in various operations to tackle the menace of armed banditry and killer herdsmen.
The governor, however, pleaded with the military that in spite of the relative peace and security not to demobilise its operation “Operation Whirl Stroke,” yet.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Benson Abounu spoke at the ground breaking ceremony for the 321 housing units under the Nigerian Army Post-Service Housing Scheme at Otukpo.
Ortom commended the army for siting the project in Otukpo, the first of such scheme to be located outside a state capital.
The houses, which are expected to be delivered in 12 months, are being constructed under the Public Private Partnership – PPP arrangement.
Speaking earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen.
Tukur Buratai assured that the army in partnership with other security agencies would tackle security challenges in the state, including armed bandits and killer herdsmen.
Buratai stressed that as the “food basket” of the nation, it was imperative that there should be security and peace in Benue.
He said when completed, the houses would be allocated to military personnel and civilians on basis of 50/50 unlike the previous arrangement of 70 to 30.
In his remarks, Managing Director of Betoniq West Limited AVM Monday Morgan (rtd) assured that the company would deliver a high standard houses that would impress every Nigerian to live in Otukpo.
Chairman, Otukpo Local Government Area, George Alyi said the project would go along way in reducing unemployment and social vices among youths in the area.
Earlier when he paid a courtesy visit to the paramount ruler of the Idoma people, the Och’ Idoma, Dr Elias Obekpa, Buratai informed him that the army was constructing a barracks in Otukpo as part of efforts to ensure security in the town and its environs.
He said under the Nigerian army “Order of Battle” 2016, President Muhammadu Buhari gave the approval for the establishment of the barracks.
The army chief noted that Idoma sons and daughters had contributed to the development of the military through their enlistment into the Armed Forces.
Responding, the Och’ Idoma, who was represented by Chief John Ochayi, Ad’ Ohimini commended the army for the establishment of the barracks.
He said the formation, when completed would help in addressing security challenges in the area, noting that there had been long cordial relationship between the army and Idoma people.