By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
Unknown Armed Militia Herdsmen on Saturday attacked Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom while inspecting his farm at Tyo – mu along Makurdi Gboko road.
Ortom confirmed the attack on him by the suspected militia herdsmen while briefing journalists at Government House, Makurdi, after the incidence explained that as he was inspecting his farm, the militia herders, who dressed in black and had ambushed him and his security men, opened fire on them.
He said it took the swift response of his security aides to repel the attack, while he ran for a long distance to escape unhurt.
The Governor lamented that the attack came a few days after the leadership of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore held a meeting in Yola and singled him out as a thorn in their flesh who must be eliminated, pointing out that he received intelligence to that effect.
Governor Ortom said his life is in the hands of God and no Fulani militia has the power to take it without God’s permission, noting that as many times as they try, they would continue to fail.
He stated that the ranching law of the State will not be repealed for any reason, stressing that no intimidation could force his administration to reverse the decision of Benue people against open grazing.
The Governor said he would send a petition to the President and security chiefs against Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore as allowing their leadership to walk freely with security personnel attached to them was not in the best interest of the country.