By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
Bishop Isaac Dugu of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina Ala in Benue State, North Central Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to demonstrate more commitment in addressing security challenges in the country.
The Catholic leric stated this in a message during the thanksgiving Mass organized to mark the 70th birthday anniversary of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.
He condemned the wanton destruction of property and lives by bandits which took place at the time the whole world was in festive mood celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
The thanksgiving Mass held at Wannune, the country home of the SGF in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State.
"Regrettably, we saw the recent attack in Plateau State where more than 100 lives were lost. As I speak, a couple of persons are in captivity by other bandits in Sankera axis here in Benue State.
"Insecurity is still our greatest nightmare. The villages are gradually becoming uninhabited and inaccessible. The food basket is fast becoming empty, since people can no longer go to their farms".
He challenged the Federal Government and the Government of Benue State, the political class, traditional rulers and security agencies to "demonstrate sincerity and readiness in order to end institutionalized insecurity".
Bishop Dugu regretted that the country was in serious political, economic and social difficulties with the various walls of division, hatred, inequality and injustice multiplying daily and urged all hands to be on deck to face the many great challenges that are weighing heavily on the nation and the North Central geopolitical region in particular.
"While, we acknowledge the 1,000 units housing scheme initiated by the Federal Government for Benue citizens, we are curious to know what other fortunes we shall have".
The Bishop expressed concern about the prospects of the office of SGF on peace and stability of the North Central region of the country.
"What is the implication of this office in peacebuilding in the North-Central geopolitical zone, with many people displaced from their ancestral homes. In which ways would this office end the culture of banditry, terrorism, political bigotry and joblessness"?
Bishop Dugu extended his sincere condolences to the Government and people of Plateau State and urged the SGF to use his office to address insecurity in the region.
"How would this office facilitate effective health care services, youth empowerment, mechanised farming, good road network, a functional economy, transport and rail system in the North-Central Area"?
He expressed the hope that after the first four years of the administration, peace, unity and development shall return to the region, insisting that the interest of the nation remains paramount over and above the selfish demands of political parties, groups or individuals.
"If my records are reliable, this is the first time in the history of Nigerian politics that a son or daughter of Benue origin is appointed into this office and since we don’t know when next this opportunity will come our way again, I admonish Benue sons and daughters and friends to give our distinguished SGF all the necessary support to succeed".
He described Sen. George Akume as a selfless politician who lives all his life for the good of other people adding that his best was yet to come.
On his part, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume maintained that the killings in the country have reduced since the assumption into office of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Sen. Akume assured that the Federal Government was doing everything possible to end insecurity in the country and appealed to Nigerians for cooperation.
