Bandits are our children, says Governor Umahi
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi has declared his intention to negotiate with bandits to ascertain their grievances and the way forward.
Mr Umahi made the declaration on Friday in Abakaliki at the presentation of 40 Toyota Sienna vehicles and 20 Hilux vans to security agencies for enhanced operations in the state.
The governor directed local government chairmen and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to identify the bandits and present them for debriefing.
“I want to talk to the bandits and empower them as we cannot continue to kill ourselves and destroy public infrastructure.
“The bandits are our children and I am pained when they or the security agencies are killed.
“I want to ascertain their grievances against Ebonyi or the federal government, and collate the facts for discussions to commence,” he said.
He expressed disappointment over the announcement of guidelines for the 2023 elections, noting that the nation was at a crossroad for such engagement.
“Let us forget about the 2023 elections with the leaders taking responsibility for the situation and discussing a way forward.
“No one takes money to the grave and when we hear a gunshot, we will run and abandon the money we amassed.
“This is not a period to discuss political parties but ensure that the resources of this nation which can truly transform it is judiciously utilised,” he said.
Mr Umahi debunked the insinuation that members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) or Eastern Security Network (ESN) were after him, insisting that he has discharged his duties to the people.
Secretary to the State Government, Kenneth Ugbala, said that the presentation was the first batch of the 100 Sienna vehicles and 40 utility vehicles to be procured for security agencies.
“The governor has fully paid for the 40 Sienna vehicles and 20 Hilux vans being presented as the recipients are charged to judiciously utilise the vehicles,” he said.
The heads of various security agencies, top government officials, youth groups among other stakeholders, were present at the ceremony.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Sport
Iheanacho, Ndidi secure Premier League promotion with Leicester City
Leicester City have now secured one of the two automatic promotion tickets to the Premier League.
Economy
BDC operators warn against naira speculation, hoarding
He added that ABCON will upgrade technology in its quest to help in the fight against the sabotage of CBN’s reforms.
Economy
Tinubu taps Jim Ovia to lead Nigerian education loan fund
The prominent Nigerian banker was appointed on Friday.
Heading 4
Liverpool agree compensation with Feyenoord to appoint Arne Slot as new manager
Liverpool had initially shown interest in former player and Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.
Agriculture
Taraba govt. set to distribute first set of tractors to farmers
“We have so far received 20 Cabrio and 250 mini high powered tractors that would be distributed to our farmers on May 28.”
NationWide
Jonathan mourns Ayogu Eze
The former president commiserated with the Eze family, his political and professional colleagues in the media.