From Rose Ejembi and Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
The Emir of Lafia, His Royal Majesty, Justice Sidi Bage Mohammed (rtd), has lauded the Bebue state Governor Samuel Ortom, for his efforts toward ensuring the security of his people.
The traditional ruler, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria gave the commendation on Tuesday, when he received Governor Ortom on a condolence visit in Lafia over the death of his brother, Alhaji Safiyanu Bage.
The retired jurist commended the governor’s commitment in securing his people, particularly the laws enacted by the Ortom administration, saying the laws are in tandem with the realities on ground.
“I took some time to go over some of the laws that your administration has enacted and I have no quarrel about them. I did say that this is in order. I remember Your Excellency said if there were any suggestions that I could make for the improvement of the laws, I did not really find one,” he stressed.
The paramount ruler acknowledged that the Governor has shown passion and commitment for the safety of his people, pointing out that the enactment of laws was meant to enhance security in the state.
While wishing the Governor well, he said “We thank God for you, for keeping the state and the people. Of course, there are challenges everywhere but your efforts have really paid off.
“As you journey towards the conclusion of your tenure, we are wishing you all the best and wish you whatever that you wish for yourself in the future. For us here, we will continue to pray for you.”
He thanked the Governor for finding the time to pay him a visit even after sending him a condolence message, saying “This is a great honour done to us and we cherish it. You are our closest neighbour and a personal friend of mine, someone that I respect so much.”
He further pointed out that the people of Nasarawa State and Benue have a shared relationship said the people are one adding that
“There is no boundary and even our brothers that are in Benue, the boundary between us is artificial because as you travel, you will not see a wall created separating us as one people. We are one people and we always maintained our love, our friendship.”
He also promised to invite the Governor to the commissioning of the renovated Emir’s palace.
Earlier, Governor Ortom had consoled the Emir over the loss of his brother and urged him to be strong and look unto God who gives and takes life.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate the traditional ruler for ascending to the throne, noting that he is a great Nigerian whose wealth of knowledge will benefit the society and prayed for his reign to be peaceful.
The Governor reiterated the commitment of Benue people to coexist peacefully with the Government and people of Nasarawa state.