Benue News: Governor Ortom Sanctions Traditional Ruler Over Threats To Cameroonian Refugees

The Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has ordered that disciplinary action should be taken against a traditional ruler in Kwande Local Government Area.

Ortom’s directive follows allegations of harassment and security threats to Cameroonian refugees in the state.

While receiving the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Antonio Jose at the Government House in Makurdi on Saturday, the governor said the actions of the kindred head of Anyake have resulted in the withdrawal of a $300,000 intervention grant from the European Commission.

As part of punitive measures, he, therefore, directed also directed a downward review of the estimated amount for compensation for the 59 hectares of land allocated for the resettlement of the Cameroonians.

Meanwhile, In another development, The Buhari Media Organisation (BMO) has described comments by Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue on his former aide, Terwase Akwaza alias Gana, as hypocritical.

Ortom has accused Gana of causing mayhem and destabilizing communities in Benue.

The group made its position known in a statement signed by its Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary, Casiddy Madueke, on Sunday in Abuja.

The group noted that Terwase had been declared wanted by security agencies for his role in the herdsmen and farmers clashes and other crimes in Benue and other parts of North-Central states.