Benue to amend anti-kidnapping, cultism laws to provide stiffer penalties

By: Jimin Geoffrey

Benue State Government is to amend the law against kidnapping, cultism and other related crimes to spell out stiffer penalties for culprits.

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

The Governor stated that increased level of kidnapping and cult related killings in the state had called for the amendment of the laws, stressing that security agents had also been directed to deal mercilessly with anyone involved in such crimes.

He also stated that adequate measures had been taken to contain the deadly Coronavirus that had been reported in Lagos State recently, stressing that people should avoid handshake and as well, wash their hands regularly with soap as interim control measures.

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

He described late Senator Waku as a humble, God fearing and truthful democrat who groomed many politically including himself (Governor Ortom), adding that the deceased supported his reelection bid even while they were in different political parties.

The Governor advised politicians against politics of rancour and acrimony, saying their political interests should not divide them as a people.