Fulani group identified as Fulani Nationality Movement (FUNAM) has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack on Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state.
According to DailyPost, FUNAM said it planned to kill Ortom on Saturday, but its plan suffered a setback due to a slight communication error.
On Saturday, gunmen attacked the governor’s convoy while on a visit to a farm. The incident was said to have occurred at Tyo Mu along Makurdi-Gboko road.
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Giving a reason for the intended action, one Umar Amir Shehu in a statement courtesy the group said Ortom stood against open grazing and Fulani interest in the country.
The statement entitled: “Why we attacked Ortom” reads;
Our attention has been drawn to media reports today speculating about who attacked the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom.
Yes. Yes, We did. The Fulani Nationality Movement, (FUNAM) carried out the attack. We have genuine reasons. We acted on behalf of Millions of Fulani people in 15 countries.
It’s a case of vengeance against an infidel who has used his time and money, deployed in destroying the Fulani values and inheritance.
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The group added;
Our courageous fighters carried out this historic attack to send a great message to Ortum and his collaborators: Where ever 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.
Our intention is unequivocal: TO KILL HIM. That mission will one day be fulfilled and very soon too.
Eleven of FUNAM operatives were involved in the attack. Ortom escaped today because of a slight technical communication error. Next time, he will not be lucky. We can assure him and his supporters.
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Reacting, the governor had alleged that linked the assassination attempt to Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
The governor claimed that MACBAN concluded plans to assassinate him over his position on open grazing.
Ortom alleged that Miyetti Allah took the decision to eliminate him during a meeting they organised recently in Yola.
He noted that his life is in the hands of the Supreme God and no Fulani man can kill him, said he received intelligence that the association planned to kill his security aides and subsequently capture him alive.
