Based on its plans to tackle the issue of insecurity the Benue State Government, has warned the people of the state, particularly those in Makurdi, the state capital against any form of violence, including cultism and extortion.

Therefore, indigenous security outfits in the state have embarked on a show of force to drive home the warning that the state government would not tolerate any act of violence.

Following the development, the joint indigenous security outfits this weekend went round Makurdi metropolis to sensitize the people against violence, cultism and extortion.

The security outfits that embarked on the show of force include, the State Community Volunteer Guards, Livestock Guards, Vigilante Group as well as the Hunters’ Association in the state.

Joseph Har, Security Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia, who said that the exercise was the carrot approach of the state government, noted that the security of lives and property was paramount to the Governor Alia administration.

Har appealed to youths in the state to shun any act of violence so as to attract investors to the state, adding that “The State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia is a peaceful man who is concerned about the growth of the state.”

While he noted that the peace approach adopted by the governor was not a sign of weakness, the Adviser said government had the support of traditional rulers in Makurdi, just as he admonished the people to warn their wards to refrain from acts of violence.

Earlier, the Ter Makurdi, HRH Vincent Ahule represented by Chief Pius Tor, District Head of Iukyondu I-Sha described those engaging in ‘marching ground’ around the town as a disgrace to the capital city.

The traditional ruler further said, “We are happy with your initiative and whole heartedly welcome it. Those carrying out this 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 clean. 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,” he stated.

The Indigenous security outfits had earlier gone round the Makurdi metropolis and made their presence felt at Modern market, Wadata market, North Bank market, North-Bank and Wurukum motor parks as well as other parts of the metropolis. (Saturday Independent)