Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for his decision to postpone the 2023 National Population Census until adequate security can be guaranteed in the country.
The governor had previously called for the postponement, stating that conducting the census under the current circumstances would be unjust and deprive millions of Nigerians who have been displaced from their homes. In a statement by his media adviser, Terver Akase, Ortom emphasised the importance of restoring security and allowing displaced people to return to their ancestral lands in order to be counted properly.
Ortom further stated that he believed there was an agenda behind the proposed census and that the lives and well-being of the people must come first. He added that the postponement should be used as an opportunity for the government to ensure that Nigerians whose communities have been taken over by bandits and armed herders can regain their lands and return home. The governor emphasised his commitment to justice, fairness, equity, and the rule of law.
The National Population Commission had earlier stated that individuals must be counted in their localities, meaning that those who have been displaced from their homes may not be accurately counted. This would result in a misrepresentation of the country's demographics, leading to skewed policies and inadequate allocation of resources. Ortom's call for the postponement of the census received widespread support from various groups and individuals.
President Buhari's decision to heed the call for the postponement of the census was welcomed by many, including Governor Ortom, who described it as a step in the right direction. The president has been under intense pressure to address the issue of insecurity in the country, which has been a major concern for Nigerians. The postponement of the census will allow the government to focus on addressing the security challenges facing the country and creating an enabling environment for Nigerians to return to their homes.
Governor Ortom's call for a postponement of the census until adequate security is guaranteed in the country underscores the need for the government to prioritise the well-being of its citizens. The security challenges facing Nigeria have resulted in the displacement of millions of people, making it imperative for the government to take decisive action to restore peace and security. The postponement of the census provides an opportunity for the government to address these challenges and work towards a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.