Mr. Justine Shaku, Chairman of the Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue, has reported that ongoing criminal activities in the region have resulted in the closure of many schools, markets, and primary health clinics for over a year.
In a phone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Shaku stated that all social infrastructure in the council has suffered significant damage. He noted that “more than 20 schools, 23 markets, and 13 primary health clinics remain shut due to the persistent activities of criminal elements in the area.”
He added that eight council wards have been severely impacted as well. “Insecurity in this region has posed significant challenges, particularly affecting agriculture, which is our primary livelihood,” he said.
Despite these difficulties, Shaku expressed his commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the damaged economic sectors within the council. He plans to focus on health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and security to enhance the council’s economy and restore educational facilities.
Shaku also mentioned that the council secretariat is in poor condition and needs complete reconstruction. He emphasized that following the Supreme Court’s ruling granting local governments more autonomy, he is determined to address the deteriorating infrastructure and fulfill his campaign promises.