Benue State Government on Friday sensitised the people of the capital city of Makurdi against violence, cultism and extortion.
The Special Adviser to the State Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Joseph Har-led the sensitisation campaign across major places in the town.
Places visited during the sensitization tour include; Modern Markets, Wadata Market, North Bank Market, North Bank Motor Park, Wuruku and other parts of the state capital.
It was a combined team of joint security forces of the state security outfits that embarked on a show of force around Makurdi metropolis.
The security outfits comprised the State Community Volunteer Guards, Livestock Guards, Vigilante Group and Hunter Association.
Har said that the sensitisation was a carrot approach of the state government, saying that the security of lives and property was paramount to the state governor, Hyacinth Alia.
He appealed to youths to shun any act of violence so as to attract investors to the state.
According to Har, “The state governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia is a peaceful man who is concerned about the growth of the state”, adding that the peaceful approach of the governor was not a weakness.
The Special Adviser said that the government had the support of the traditional rulers in Makurdi and admonished the people to warn their wards and children to refrain from any act of violence
Speaking earlier, the traditional ruler of Makirdi, Ter Makurdi, HRH Vincent Ahule represented by Chief Pius To, District Head of Iukyondu I-Sha described those engaging in the marching ground around the town as a disgrace to the capital city.
The traditional ruler said, “We are happy with your initiative and wholeheartedly welcome it. Those carrying out these acts are disgracing us.
“The Ter Makurdi has before now warned his subjects against this act. We are solidly behind you. A new broom usually sweeps very cleanly. We need peace in Makurdi so that other places in the state can also enjoy peace.
“Our Makurdi was not like this before and we are not happy with what is happening now. The cult-related activities are much and against our beliefs. We believe that with this project, Makurdi will enjoy peace.”
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