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26/05/2023

ORTOM COMMISSIONS VOLUNTEER GUARDS HQTRS, BENUE TV, REMODELLED GOVERNOR'S OFFICE

…Swears-in new Permanent Secretary

…Inaugurates Peace and Reconciliation Commission

Governor Samuel Ortom has commissioned the headquarters of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards, Benue Television and the remodelled Governor's office.

The Governor performed the ceremonies separately on Friday, May 26th, 2023 at the Benue Peoples, Makurdi.

The Governor in his remarks while commissioning the office complex of the State Community Volunteer Guards commended the state security outfit for working in line with rules of engagement in collaboration with conventional security agencies to secure the state.

He reiterated his position that Nigeria was long overdue to have a State Police, stressing that whenever it comes to fruition, the State Community Volunteer Guards should be given the first right of refusal to join to strengthen the security of the State and country.

At the Benue Television, Governor Ortom expressed delight over the achievements the corporation has recorded within a short span of its establishment, stressing that it was a platform to showcase the state to the outside world.

Governor Ortom also approved the conversion of 13 casual staff of the Benue Television to permanent employment status.

While commissioning the remodelled Governor's office, which serves as central administration block at the Government House, the Governor noted that it was in the state of dilapidation with leaking roof and an eyesore.

State Commandant of Community Volunteer Guards, Cpt. A. Ajobi (rtd) said a total number of 1,574 BSCVG personnel were trained and kitted.

He said to enhance mobility and operational capacity of the outfit, the State Government procured 52 vehicles and 463 motorcycles and lauded the Governor for providing office accommodation to serve as the state headquarters of the security outfit.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Lt. Col. Paul Hemba (rtd) and representative of the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, S. Y Gimba praised the BSCVG for being professional in their conduct and applauded Governor Ortom's efforts to ensure security of lives and property in the state, and expressed hope that the incoming administration will build on the foundation he has laid.

Director General of Benue Television, Dr. Patience Achakpa-Ikyo in her remarks said the station, which was initiated by the Ortom-led administration had achieved milestones and was broadcasting 56 programmes for 24 hours and had obtained the Digital Terrestrial License, adding that Benue TV had won an award as the best station in North Central region.

Commissioner of Information, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Michael Inalegwu hailed the Governor for the priority towards funding the ministry and its agencies.

Commissioner of Housing and Urban Development, Chief Ekpe Ogbu who presented the remodelled Governor's office edifice for the Governor's commissioning, stated that it had been completely upgraded and fully furnished.

Meanwhile, Governor Ortom has sworn-in, Rev. Fr Terungwa as Permanent Secretary in the State Civil Service with a charge on him to add value to the State, noting that the appointment was based on the track record of experience and service of the appointee in the educational sector.

In his response, the new Permanent Secretary, Fr. Tor expressed appreciation to the Governor for the opportunity to serve the state in that capacity and assured that he will not disappoint, stressing that Governor Ortom made history for appointing the first Catholic Priest Permanent Secretary.

Governor Ortom also inaugurated the Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission, stating that it was part of his conscious of efforts towards ensuring peace-building and sustainable development in the state.

He extolled people of the state for being peaceful in the past eight years of his administration, noting that there were no religious crises except the attacks by herdsmen marauders, which the state was grappling with.

The Benue State Peace and Reconciliation Commission has Bishop Nathan Nyom as Board Chairman and Mrs Josephine Habba as Director General of the Commission.

Others on the Commission are: Mr Nduul Raphael Msugher as Secretary, Mr. Aboh Utah, Engr Felix Atume, AIG Wilson Inalegwu (rtd) as Eminent Persons for zones, A, B & C respectively, while Ms. Priscilla Achakpa, Prof. Charity Angya, Mrs. Dorcas Iorkusa, Barr. Rommy Mom are representatives of Peace-building, Gender Advocacy for Justice, Gender and Community Empowerment Initiative as well as Lawyers Alert respectively.

Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs and NEPAD, Prof. Magdalyn Dura stated that the Commission is a creation of the law enacted by the State Assembly, saying the Commission was targeted at developing policies and institutional peace-building efforts and responding to early warning signals to avert any breach of public peace.

In his remarks on behalf of other members of the Commission, Bishop Nathan Nyom thanked the Governor for finding them worthy to serve, saying efforts for sustainability of peace in the state were commendable and members of Commission will remain loyal to the noble cause.

25/05/2023

BNSG TO BENEFIT FROM FG STAMP DUTY RECEIPTS

The Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has disclosed that the State Government is to benefit from the N2.3trn being receipts from stamp duties that have accrued to the Federal Government for the past eight years.

The Governor disclosed this Thursday, May 25th, 2023 when he paid a farewell visit to the Idoma Area Traditional Council at the Och'Idoma's Palace in Otukpo, the administrative headquarters of Idoma nation.

Governor Ortom during the visit, briefed the Idoma Area Traditional Council on efforts by his administration towards uplifting the State from present financial challenges it was grappling with.

According to him, the Federal Government is to also remit the difference of N22bn to the Benue State coffers from the debt swap agreement negotiated by the Nigerian Governors Forum.

Governor Ortom stated that the Nigerian Governors Forum reached an agreement with the Federal Government that the N2.3trn stamp duties should be shared across the States.

He revealed that 50% of the stamp duty accruals were to be given to the outgoing administration before handover to attend to financial issues standing against it while the remaining 50% was to be preserved for the incoming administration.

Governor Ortom however told the traditional rulers that contrary to the agreement, the State was yet to receive payment from the stamp duty funds from the Federal Government.

He however expressed optimism that whenever the money comes and whoever receives it, would expend it for the development of the state, stressing that it was money meant for the state.

The Governor stated that he has been persecuted for standing on the side of truth and ensuring peace for all citizens through lawful means but would not be deterred by the persecution from doing the right thing at all times.

He commended the Idoma Area Traditional Council for adapting to reforms in the new chieftaincy laws and for the support to his administration in the past eight years, stressing that he remains grateful to God and people of Idoma nation.

The Och'Idoma, His Royal Majesty, John Elaigwu Odogbo in his response invoked blessings upon the Governor, stating he has made commendable efforts towards protecting the state and providing critical infrastructure and many people who have openly spoken against the Governor have had cause to praise him behind the scene.

The paramount ruler affirmed that Governor Ortom has won accolades for re-creating the traditional institution and reinforcing the chieftaincy institution.

He added that Governor Ortom has earned the honour and respect of the Idoma people and would be sought after by the present and future generations for his courageous leadership, urging him to remain steadfast and focused.

In separate remarks, the four First Class Chiefs in Idoma kingdom, the Ad' Enone, HRH Engr. George Edeh, Agangwu Apa/Agatu, HRH Baba Odangla, Adarihu Ny'Igede, HRH Oga Eru and Ad' Otukpo/Ohimini, HRH Emmanuel Okochi all extolled the leadership qualities of Governor Ortom and applauded his untiring efforts to unite the people and ensure peace in the land.

24/05/2023

GOV ORTOM SIGNS SIX BILLS INTO LAW

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has assented to six bills recently passed by the State House of Assembly.

The Governor gave assent to the bills on Wednesday, May 24th, 2023 at the new Banquet Hall of the Benue Peoples, House Makurdi during the expanded stakeholders meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

He said the laws were enacted to give legislative backing to every decision taken by the State Government.

Governor Ortom stressed that to ensure rule of law, his administration has enacted more laws than any other in the history of the state.

The bills the Governor assented to are: 'A Law to Provide for the Retirement Age of Teachers in Benue State and other Related Matters'; 'A Law to Amend the Benue State Polytechnic Law, 2021 and for Connected Purposes'; 'A Law to Amend the Akawe Torkula Polytechnic Law, 2020 and Connected Purposes'.

Other laws assented to include: 'A Law to Amend the Akperan Orshi Polytechnic Law, 2020 and for Connected Purposes'; 'A Law to Amend the College of Education Oju Law, 2021 and for Connected Purposes' as well as 'A Law to Amend the College of Education Katsina-Ala Law, 2021 and for Connected Purposes'.

Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Christopher Adaji, who presented the bills for the Governor's assent, lauded the disposition of the Ortom administration to ensure the rule of law.

He affirmed that the 9th State Assembly has had a smooth working relationship with the executive arm of government, adding that the Assembly has also enacted more laws than previous ones.

Governor Ortom who earlier addressed the expanded stakeholders meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and commended the party members for their unwavering support to his administration.

He assured them that even as he rounds-off his tenure, he remains firmly committed to building the party in collaboration with the stakeholders, urging them to keep faith with the party and not be weighed down by the outcome of the last general elections.

Acting State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Isaac Mffo expressed appreciation to the Governor and all party members for their support to the growth of the party in spite of the temporary setback following the poor showing in the 2023 polls.

While noting that the party will continue to wax stronger and restrategize to bounce back, he enjoined members of the party to remain united for the task ahead of rebuilding the party.

In separate remarks, Chief David Amoh for Zone A, Hon. Mike Mku for Zone B and Hon. Christian Abah for Zone C all assured that they will continue to stand by the party and the Governor whom they acknowledged has done well.

PDP Board of Trustees member for North Central, Chief Margaret Icheen and representative of the youth also gave goodwill messages at the stakeholders meeting.

23/05/2023

DON'T ALLOW POLITICS RUIN TIV NATION, ORTOM URGES TIV TRADITIONAL COUNCIL

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has urged the Tiv Traditional Council not to allow partisan politics ruin the collective interest of the Tiv nation.

Governor Ortom spoke Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023 during a farewell interface he had with the Tiv Area Traditional Council at the Tor Tiv Palace in Gboko to formally inform them about his exit from office in a few days.

The Governor told the traditional rulers that as custodians of the land, they should not allow destructive tenets from their subjects to consume the people in the name of politics, saying politics of bitterness and acrimony must be eschewed to give peace a chance.

He charged the traditional rulers to prevail on their subjects to shun the culture of casting aspersions on their leaders, saying it must stop with his administration and encouraged the people to adopt collective bargaining for the development of the Tiv nation.

"Let the insults, blackmail and lies peddled against me and other leaders end with my administration. Let a line be drawn and should not be transferred to the next administration because it is unhealthy for development," Ortom stressed, stating that the unity and peace of Tivland must be upheld at all times devoid of partisanship.

Governor Ortom who holds the honorific chieftaincy title of "Nyamkyume i Tiv", told the traditional rulers that after his exit from office, he would take a back stage however, pledged his allegiance to any noble cause that would advance the interest of the State.

He assured them that even though he was exiting from office, he remained firmly committed to any initiative that was capable of bringing development to Tivland and Benue State in general.

Governor Ortom expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers for always supporting his administration in the past eight years, stating that despite the turbulent moments, they stood by him and he drew strength and inspiration from their counsel and encouragement.

In his response on behalf of the Council, the Tor Tiv and Chairman of Tiv Area Traditional Council, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse acknowledged how Governor Ortom has stood firm for the protection of his people.

He expressed delight that the Governor did not succumb to intimidation, victimization or blackmail from high quarters, saying that posterity will positively judge the Governor for all the sacrifices he has made for his people.

According to him, Governor Ortom was concluding his tenure on a sound footing and was only taking a deserved rest, noting that the Governor will remain relevant in the socio-political affairs of the country and will be needed in future by his people for other responsibilities and encouraged him to remain focused.

The paramount ruler commended the Governor for introducing reforms in the traditional institution as well as giving priority to the welfare of traditional rulers, pointing out the construction of ultra modern palaces for the Tor Tiv and Och'Idoma as well as provision of vehicles among others.

The Tor Tiv led other traditional rulers to adorn the Governor in a Tiv traditional regalia and prayed to God to continue to protect and shield him from aggressors and anyone who plans evil against him, assuring that the blessings of the Tiv traditional Council will accompany the Governor in all his endeavors.

Governor Ortom who later presided over at the 10th State Executive Council meeting in 2023 at the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi in his opening remarks said he remained grateful to Benue people for the mandate they gave him to serve.

He emphasised that he committed no crime during his tenure, but simply executed the mandate of the people and would not be afraid to defend his actions, stressing that he has been prudent in the utilization of state resources.

He particularly commended civil servants in the state for their tolerance, stating that "I have been denied resources to clear arrears of salary and pension so that in doing so, the civil servants should rise against me, but I am grateful to them for their understanding," Governor Ortom added.

22/05/2023

45 RURAL ELECTRIFICATION PROJECTS EXECUTED TO BOOST SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEV'T IN BENUE- Gov Ortom

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has disclosed that not fewer than 45 rural electrification projects were executed by his administration in different communities to boost socio-economic activities.

Governor Ortom stated this Monday, May 22nd, 2023 while commissioning a rural electrification project in Kpengwa community, Kohov, Shangev-Ya in Kwande local government council.

The Governor noted that milestones were achieved by his administration in rural development particularly in the provision of electricity to enhance economic activities and give the rural dwellers a new lease of life.

He said he has directed his Commissioners from the respective communities to commission the projects before the exit of his administration in a few days.

Governor Ortom said he would continue to execute his mandate for the people of the state until the expiration of his tenure.

He added that the recruitment of more teachers was to fill up the existing vacancies and reinforce the teaching service in the state.

Chairman of Kwande local government council, Hon. Orjiir Gbande and an indigene of the area, Chief Emmanuel Viashima expressed appreciation to the Governor for executing the project, stating that it has made life more comfortable for people of the area.

Governor Ortom had earlier attended the marriage of a High Court Judge in the State Judiciary, Justice John Shishi and his wife, Helen at Ajio, Mbape in Shangev-Ya.

He congratulated the couple and prayed that their marital union will blossom in everlasting love.

The Governor commended the couple for choosing to honour God as they consummate their love for each other, noting that it was the right thing to do as responsible people.

Ter Kwande, His Royal Highness, Chief Timothy Ahile and Ter Guma, His Royal Highness, Chief Dennis Shemberga gave royal blessings to the couple and prayed for their marital union to be peaceful.

The ceremonies were attended by dignitaries from Guma local government where Justice Shishi hails from.

21/05/2023

GOV ORTOM LAUDS BIPC ON EFFORTS TO TACKLE HOUSING DEFICIT

With barely 9-days to the end of his administration, Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom says he is delighted with the commitment of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited, BIPC for its efforts to address housing deficit through estate development.

Governor Ortom spoke Saturday, May 20th, 2023 during the commissioning of Fountain Estate, Nyorgyungu in Makurdi the state capital built by BIPC, a limited liability company owned by the State Government.

In his words, "Estate development is important because the housing deficit is so high in Nigeria and in Benue State. Whatever you pay today, give one year, this building will appreciate and if you want to sell, you can make more money.

"I know that because of the housing deficit we have, more people will always need housing. I commend BIPC on this giant stride of adding value and all your proposed initiatives not just in Benue but in Abuja.

"I have a few days to leave office but the government is a continuum. Moreover, BIPC has come to stay and I believe that the incoming government will also support you to ensure that you do more," Ortom stated.

The Governor further commended the current Board and Management of BIPC for its proactive approach to development.

According to him, "If other past Boards and Management had done even one quarter of what you are doing, we would have been very far by now. We wouldn't be commissioning one estate but many in this town," he noted.

He attributed the success of BIPC to the policy of non-interference of his administration, emphasising that "My Government has zero tolerance for interference in the management of the company.

"We don't interfere, because we have competent people and we believe that they can add value as we heard and seen, whether in the shares of the company, whether in infrastructural development," Governor Ortom added.

Managing Director /Chief Executive Officer of BIPC, Dr Alex Ter Adum explained that the project cost was about N600m without any loan equity or grant, stating that the estate comprised 30 units of 3-bedroom bungalows with 16 units fully completed and ready to be occupied while 14 units were partially completed.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor "for providing the enabling environment, direction and support for the private sector to thrive in Benue State."

Earlier, Board Chairman of BIPC, Hon. Mike Mku acknowleged the success of the Company under the Board's supervision, saying the company equities portfolio has also witnessed astronomical growth between 2019-2023, stressing that the company has witnessed equity portfolio growth from about N3.8bn to N6.6bn.

The Board Chairman explained that of the 30 housing units of the estate, a fully rendered unit will be sold at N25m and N21m for a partially completed unit, urging the "incoming government to encourage more of similar projects in order to provide much needed housing and improve the quality of urban development in Makurdi."

Governor Ortom later performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the BIPC Makurdi Shopping Mall at the site beside Guaranty Trust Bank along Makurdi- Otukpo Road.

He expressed satisfaction with the initiative, describing it as a great stride to add value to the development of the state.

Governor Ortom noted that Makurdi is a fast growing city that requires more shopping malls and invited the organised private sector to key-in, adding that the Government will always be willing to provide land for such investments.

19/05/2023

GOV ORTOM HAILS WIFE FOR COMPLEMENTING GOVT'S EFFORTS IN SERVICE DELIVERY

…Renames Road in Makurdi after Major Gideon Orkar

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has lauded his wife, Dr Eunice Ortom for complementing the government's efforts toward general service delivery to the people through her pet project, the Eunice Spring of Life Foundation, ESLF.

Governor Ortom spoke Thursday, May 18th, 2023 during the commissioning of ESLF Integrated Health Facility at Apir in Makurdi, the state capital.

The Governor in his speech acknowledged that "The initiative to construct and operationalise this health facility was to complement Government’s efforts in providing optimal health services to the most needy persons, especially women, children and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) among other marginalized groups."

He expressed satisfaction that ESLF has recorded appreciable achievements by bringing prevention, care and support services to the most vulnerable, noting that the interventions have a positive impact on the beneficiaries with regard to poverty reduction and also added value to health awareness campaigns.

Governor Ortom assured that the Government shall deepen the exploration of viable partnerships and other workable strategies in the pursuit of the vision of a decent society.

Government, according to the Governor, "Will continue to provide the enabling environment and support for meaningful interventions like this to succeed in their genuine efforts to better the lives of the people."

"The operational and sustainability plan of the Eunice Spring of Life Foundation Integrated Health Facility is also anchored on partnership because it is not within the mandate of the Foundation as a non-profit organisation to engage in a profit making venture of this nature," he stated.

Governor Ortom added that the facility was "a product of the collaborative effort of the Foundation’s corporate individual partners who have supported financially, morally and general resource wise" stating that it was a testament to the efficacy and critical benefits that strategic partnership(s) and collaboration could bring to bear on growth and development of the state.

In her remarks, Wife of the Governor and Founder ESLF, Dr Eunice Ortom stated that the Foundation which is nonpartisan, nonreligious and non-governmental was focused on reaching people of the state in the thematic areas of health, education, economic empowerment with a bias to agriculture and environment and governance.

She said the Foundation has continued to reach the less privileged and downtrodden through medical outreaches, entrepreneurship training to promote economic self reliance particularly among the youth and women.

Chairman of Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig-Gen Burba Marwa, (rtd), who was represented by the Zonal Commander of NDLEA, Umaru Ambrose commended the ESLF Founder for being in the forefront in championing war against drug abuse, while former Chairman of EFCC, Mrs. Farida Waziri praised the Founder for taking the issue of rehabilitation of drug addicts seriously.

The Director General of Nigerian Directorate of Employment, NDE represented by Mallam Isa Abdu, Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, NUC who spoke through, Prof. David Yawe all pledged partnership with the Foundation in its key thematic areas, describing the project as transgenerational in impact.

President, Africa Regional Council of Women, Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda said the facility was an innovative one which is one of the best in the country that meets the needs of the people in line with SDGs.

Wives of the Tor Tiv and Och'Idoma, Prof. Felicia Ayatse and Mrs. Omaba Martha Elaigwu in separate goodwill messages extolled the virtues of ESLF Founder, saying the Foundation was a legacy that will stand the test of time, adding that Mrs Ortom has made Benue women proud.

Facilities at the Integrated Health Facility include Maternal and Child Specialist Unit, Out-Patient Department, Open Rehabilitation Unit, Executive Rehabilitation Duplexes and Skills Acquisition Center.

The facility is to offer a broad range of specialist services in gynaecology, paediatrics, surgery, medicine, drug/substance abuse rehabilitation, mental health and psycho-social counseling and other variegated forms of support.

Meanwhile, Governor Ortom has immortalized Major Gideon Orkar by renaming the 9.7km Terwase Agbadu-Tse-Poor-Apir Road after him, stating that it was a decision of the State Executive Council that late army officer who stood for the cause of justice, equity and fairness in the country but was unfortunately executed by the military junta after a failed coup be honoured for his patriotism.

Elder brother of the deceased Army officer, Prof. Kpamor Orkar, on behalf of the Orkar family, expressed appreciation to the Governor and the Benue State Government for immortalizing a member of their family.

The Governor also commissioned a 14km Mobile Barracks-Welfare Quarters Road and named it after the first Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ayua Num.

He said the road, which was in a deplorable state, was constructed by his administration to ease the burden of the people and commended the Contractor, Triacta Nig Ltd for timely delivery on the project.

Ter Makurdi, Chief Vincent Aule praised the Governor for executing several projects in his domain, saying his legacies will outlive him.

16/05/2023

I'VE NO REGRETS STANDING WITH MY PEOPLE - Gov Ortom

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom says he has no regrets standing with people of the state in the face of persecution.

Governor Ortom bared his mind Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi when the Association of Benue Indigenous Publishers presented an award to him as "Greatest Leader of Our Time".

The Governor who received the award before the commencement of the State Executive Council meeting said he was honoured that Benue people gave him their mandate for two terms, stressing that he had no regrets standing with the people against all odds.

"I am happy for this award. I have no regrets for being who I am and for doing what I did for my people in Benue State. I have no regrets at all. In fact, I have no regrets losing the Senatorial election. I have no regrets for losing it.

"I am proud of my people who elected me as Governor for the first term. And despite the opposition from the Federal Government, they elected me for a second term in 2019," Governor Ortom stated.

He continued: "The Bible says all things work together for them that love God and all who are called according to His purpose. I love God and I am called according to His purpose. So, whatever happens to me, that is how God wants it and I give glory to His name. No going back."

Governor Ortom used the occasion to invite the public to his Thanksgiving service to mark the end of his tenure and also for losing his senatorial election which comes up May 28th, 2023 saying, "I don't know what would happen if I had gone to Abuja. So whichever way, I am grateful to the Almighty God."

In his remarks, President of the Association of Benue Indigenous Publishers, Mr Akaha Sule stated that the award was in recognition of Governor Ortom's milestones in the areas of road construction, provision of quality healthcare, educational development and upliftment of the traditional institution.

According to him, "We have come to the firm conclusion that you are a worthy, fearless, selfless, patriotic and great leader of repute. We have arrived at this, considering the bold/ fearless steps you have taken in defence of our fatherland even at the detriment of your second term aspiration as Governor, as well as Senatorial ambition."

Mr Sule further lauded the Governor for promoting the rule of law and "demonstrating patriotism by patronizing local contractors including those in the opposition just as you have patronized local manufacturers to discourage capital flight," he stated.

Meanwhile, Governor Ortom in his opening remarks at the State Executive Council meeting stated that the transition committee report was almost ready, noting that he shall formally handover to the incoming Governor on May 28th, 2023.

The Governor disclosed that more projects including electricity, roads, Benue Television among others executed by his administration will be commissioned during the week, stating that a road will be named after late Major Gideon Orkar who stood for truth and justice to immortalize him as well as foundation laying for BIPC Mall in Makurdi.

The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Joseph Ngbea presented the Governor with the Distinguished Award of Excellent Leadership presented earlier by the Association of Resident Doctors, Benue State University Teaching Hospital, BSUTH for being the first Governor to domesticate the Medical Residency Training Act and Fund.

He also presented to the Governor the Award of Excellence Presented to Benue State by the Federal Government National Immunization Department for the Benue State being the best State in Immunization Performance 2022.

Earlier, Governor Ortom received the new Controller of Corrections posted to the State, CC Mary Oche and assured her of the Government's continuous support.

"For us in Benue we will continue to support the Correctional Centre because the inmates whether they are our indigenes or not, they are our people and human beings like us."

The Controller of Corrections, Makurdi Correctional Centre, Mrs. Mary Oche expressed appreciation to the Governor for building and donating to the Correctional facility a hostel block housing 146 inmates, paying for fines of the inmates and donation of vehicles to the Centre as well as granting pardon to some of the inmates.

She also appealed to the Governor to further assist in providing an electricity transformer for the Correctional facility to cater for stable power supply.