Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has told the Federal Government that Benue People have the final say on carrying AK-47 rifles to defend themselves against arms-bearing herdsmen.
Speaking on Thursday during the passing out parade of Batch B of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards in Makurdi, Ortom said considering he applied for a licence for the state-owned security outfit to bear AK-47 rifles three months ago and the Federal Government is yet to reply, his people will make a categorical decision on the matter before the end of the year.
“I’ve on behalf of the Benue State Government applied to the responsible Federal Government agency for approval to procure automatic weapons, particularly AK-47 assault rifles to further strengthen your logistic support base and your defence capability.
“I am still waiting for approval from the Federal Government despite the fact that I have done this application three months ago, and no single reply has been given to me.
“I have a responsibility to the state government and the people of Benue State. If in the next month, there is no reply, I will revert to the people of Benue State, and seek your opinion.
“Whatever you tell me is what I am going to do,” Ortom said.
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