From Rose Ejembi, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom on Wednesday swore in newly elected council chairmen to man the 23 Local government areas of the state with a charge on them to always work together as a team and shun the temptation of operating alone as sole administrators.
This is even as the Governor also cautioned them against embarking on any form of new Projects and award of contracts but instead try to complete ongoing ones.
While also urging the council chairmen to carry along their Deputies as well as the Council Legislative leader and other members, the Governor posited that “it is better to arrive at consensus decisions than taking arbitrary ones that breed acrimony, distrust and quarrels that do no one any good.”
He further enjoined them to keep abreast with all financial and other regulations guiding the conduct of their administrations and strictly adhere to them and also avoid unnecessary financial commitments which would lead to litigations.
“You should give priority to payment of Primary School Teachers, Local Government Area Traditional Councils. These and other statutory obligations should be put on First Line Charge to ensure the seamless operations of the Local Government Councils.”
Ortom who expressed worry over the rising crime wave, insecurity and crises that are going on in different parts of the state, warned that these negative developments have direct serious effects on peace without which, development cannot thrive.
“As Chief Security Officers in your respective Local Governments, you should work in harmony with the Police and other Security Agencies, Traditional Rulers, community leaders and reputable elders in your Councils.
“It is better to work hard at nipping any form of crisis in the bud than allowing it to grow and manifest to disrupt the existing peace.
“I invite you to especially note the saying that prevention is better than cure and to adopt same in handling security matters in your areas of jurisdiction.”
Ortom who also reminded them that the Anti-Open Grazing Law is very much in force in state, advised the council chairmen to work hand-in-hand with Security Agencies as well as the Livestock Guards to enforce it.
