Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has described the death Yinka Odumakin, National Publicity Secretary of pan Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, as shocking and painful.
He said Odumakin’s death has ended an illustrious career marked by objectivity and patriotism, describing him as a voice of reason and a respected human rights activist whose contributions during the days of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) leading to the country’s return to civil rule in 1999 will always be remembered.
In a statement by his chief press secretary, Terver Akase, Ortom noted that the dogged stand of Odumakin against herdsmen attacks on innocent people in Benue and other parts of the country when he fearlessly spoke the truth to power calling for justice and equity for all Nigerians cannot be undermined.
He consoled the bereaved family, the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), as well as friends and associates of the late activist while praying God to grant him eternal rest.
Meanwhile, in a message to mark the Easter celebration, Ortom urged Nigerians and residents of the state sustain the show of love for one another as Christ Jesus taught his followers.
He noted that the death and resurrection of Jesus which is the meaning of Easter epitomized a period when Christians should draw closer to God so they can reap form His grace and mercy in the face of adversities.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to place priority on the security of lives and general welfare of the people.
Ortom, who spoke through his chief press secretary, Mr. Terver Akase, in a statement in Makurdi, enjoined people of the state to sustain the support they have been giving to his administration to enable it provide greater development in various sectors of the economy.
He said it was only when the people support authorities in building a crime-free society that the government’s efforts at improving the standard of living can fully be achieved.
“I am confident that the current economic and security challenges facing Nigeria will be overcome, for the country to move to the next stage of development.
“I therefore urge people of the state to continue to show love to one another as Christ Jesus taught his followers and I wish Benue people and other Nigerians, home and abroad, joyful Easter celebrations”.
Ortom reaffirmed the resolve of his administration not to surrender the state to criminals, assuring that the long arm of the law will catch up with perpetrators of crime in the state.
