Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has warned residents against raising false alarm and making inflammatory statements about the security situation in Makurdi.
According to him, such an alarm can create panic and give hoodlums the opportunity to harass, rob and kill innocent people.
The governor said last week’s protests in Makurdi had been brought under control, and urged the police to arrest anyone fomenting trouble.
He urged residents to go about their normal activities without fear, and assist security agencies with information.
Governor Ortom reassured the people of the government’s commitment to preventing further invasion and killings by herdsmen.
After four days of bloody riots in Makurdi, Hausa and Tiv youths have resolved to lay down their arms.
Warring youths, after a meeting brokered by Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youths, Sunny Shior, marched on the streets preaching peace.
They held one another’s hands, and displayed placards of peaceful co-existence, going from door to door and appealing to those who fled to return.
Nyior told The Nation that they took the peace initiative to build the confidence of stakeholders and residents.
He appealed to victims to return home, saying security measures have been put in place to forestall attacks.
According to him, the people have resolved to give peace a chance and live together as one.
Wadata has been in turmoil since last Saturday, following protests by Hausa youths. Many sustained injuries.