Buhari calls for investigation into the attack on Ortom
An alleged Fulani Nationality Movement (FUNAM) group which claimed responsibility for the attempted assassination of the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has revealed it carried out the attack as revenge for the governor’s actions against the Fulani people.
According to PM news, the shadowy group in a statement by one Umar Amir Shehu said 11 of its members executed that raid, noting that the governor escaped because of a slight technical communication error.
“Our courageous fighters carried out this historic attack to send a great message to Ortom and his collaborators: Whereever you are, once you are against Fulani long term interest, we shall get you down. This is a clear warning.
“We hope those who take us for granted will get the indisputable message.” The group also threatened to sponsor attacks on Ortom, any state or individual that opposes the implementation of Rural Grazing Area (RUGA).”
Whether FUNAM exists in reality, could not be ascertained. Whether it is a Fifth Columnist Group is also not clear.
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Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari in a statement signed by the President’s spokesperson Garba Shehu condemned the attack directing the police to investigate the incident while stating that the incident must not be politicized.
“In expressing his sympathies, and that of the government of the federation to Governor Ortom and all Benue indigenes, President Buhari said the unfortunate incident must not be politicized, reiterating that an attack on one Nigerian is an attack on all Nigerians.
“The President directed the Police to undertake a thorough investigation into the incident involving the governor and into all such incidents affecting individuals and communities in the state.
“Let there be an open and transparent investigation and whoever is linked to it should be caught and be made to face the law.”
