From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
The Benue State government has decried the reckless destruction of property in Obi and Otukpo local government areas, as 3 persons were killed and 6 houses destroyed during the incident.
Special Adviser to Governor Samuel Ortom on Security Lt. Col. Paul Hemba made the lamentation on Friday while speaking with newsmen.
He disclosed that the state government regretted the large-scale destruction which could have been avoided, maintaining that the two (2) local government areas have always lived harmoniously.
“It is a simple matter that should not have resulted in canon. Both LGAs even inter-marry and share affiliation. It happened during the election period. The Police could have handled the situation but lacked the manpower to intervene.
“401 army brigade stepped in and restored calm but there was tension and apprehension amongst the people even after the incident and it has been brought under control.
“There were rumors that Igede people were killed. The Army has been pulled out and replaced with Police who have been plying the route on a daily basis.
“I had a dialogue with stakeholders from both sides including traditional rulers, local government chairmen and religious leaders. They regretted the action of the youth and agreed to talk to them. The Ochi’ Idoma called for a meeting which the Igede refused to attend for fear of their lives because at that time, tension was high.
“Three deaths recorded in an unconfirmed report projected the figure to be more than that, 6 houses were burnt. Obi people accused Otukpo youth of causing perpetual power failure on their side.
“We learnt that the transformer is enough to provide electricity to both areas”, the Security Adviser stated.
