The Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has vowed never to allow “foreigners” to take over the state.
Ortom spoke while receiving Humanity award from Nigerian Tribune at Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos State, on Tuesday.
The governor bagged the Platinum Anniversary award of the Most Courageous Statesman and Defender of Humanity.
He was given the award by African Newspapers of Nigeria, ANN Plc, Publishers of Nigerian Tribune.
Speaking while receiving the award, the governor also commended socio-political organisations, Afenifere, Ohanaeze and the South-South and Meddle Belt groups for standing by the state during herdsmen attacks which killed a lot of indigenes.
He said: “I dedicate this award of recognition of my minimum contribution to the growth of humanity to Benue people especially those people who died in the process of defending their land, and thousands of internally displaced people who are still in various camps in Benue State.
“I equally dedicate this award to other Nigerians and organisations who stood with me such as Afenifere as represented here by our father, Chief Ayo and the Secretary, as well as all other groups – the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, the South-South, the Middlebelt who stood with me during my trying time. I am grateful.
“I once again appreciate the Nigerian Tribune. They were with us; they stood with us.
“Lastly, let me say that Nigeria belongs to all of us. We will not allow foreigners to come from foreign lands to chase us away and takeover our ancestral lands. It would not be allowed. I thank you very much and God bless you.”
