Former Governor of Plateau State, Sen. Jonah Jang has lauded the level of development in Benue and applauded the Nigerian Senate for the passage of the state police bill.
Jang who was the military administrator of Benue from 1985 to 1986 under the Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s regime, said that Benue was one of the most underdeveloped states when he was governor. He spoke at an event marking the golden jubilee of the state.
The former military administrator expressed joy that the foundations laid by his administration had continued to grow, adding that Makurdi itself had very few tarred roads when he governed the state.
“It was during our administration that we began clearing and developing Makurdi to take the shape of a proper state capital.
“Today, I am delighted to see that one can drive through dualized roads and witness the tremendous development that has taken place over the years.
“I also congratulate the present governor because I have seen quite a lot of ongoing projects. It is encouraging to see Benue making steady progress.
“The only appeal I would make is that the governor should pay greater attention to the rural areas,” he stated.
The former governor who led Benue, defunct Gongola and Plateau states, observed that the level of poverty among the people remained high.
He, however, said that the region must synergize and confront the persistent challenge of insecurity in the middle belt.
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Jang said that meaningful development could not be achieved under the current security situation.
“I believe the governors, particularly those in the Middle Belt, should work closely with the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu to tackle insecurity.
“The sooner we address it, the better, before it further destroys the fabric of our society.
“I was among the first to advocate for state police. When I was governor, I was called all sorts of names because of that position.
“Today, I am pleased that the Tinubu administration has approved the establishment of state police.
“Frankly speaking, considering the security challenges we face, I believe state police will make a significant difference,” he stated.
According to him, recruiting indigenous people who understand the terrain and know every community, nook and crannies of their local areas would greatly enhance efforts to tackle insecurity.
Jang hoped that the state governments would move quickly to establish their respective state police structures.
“As for Plateau State, the foundation has already been laid through the establishment of Operation Rainbow.
“Therefore, I believe Gov. Caleb Mutfwang will not face much difficulty in setting up the state police,” he said.
NAN
