Benue proposes stiffer penalties for kidnappers, cultists

The Benue state government has announced plans to amend the law against kidnapping, cultism and other related crimes to spell -out stiffer penalties for culprits.

Governor Samuel Ortom disclosed this on Sunday at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Makurdi while speaking at the one year remembrance thanksgiving service in honour late Senator Joseph Waku.

The governor stated that increased level of kidnapping and cult -related killings in the state has necessitated the amendment of the laws, stressing that security agents have also been directed to deal mercilessly with anyone involved in such crimes.

Gov. Ortom stated that before his death, Sen. Waku reconciled all his family members at his 70th birthday celebration and thanksgiving service, even as he prayed God to grant the deceased peaceful repose in heaven.

He described the late senator as a humble, God-fearing and true democrat who groomed many politicians including him, adding that the deceased supported his re-election bid even while they were in different political parties.

The governor advised politicians against politics of rancour and acrimony, saying political interests should not divide the citizens of the state as a people.

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Gov. Ortom disclosed that his recent trip abroad would soon start yielding fruits as investors have indicated interest to flood the state in the nearest future for businesses and called on Benue people to be law -abiding.

He also stated that adequate measures have been taken to contain the deadly coronavirus that has been reported in Lagos state, stressing that people should avoid handshakes and wash their hands regularly with soap as interim control measures.