The Speaker, Benue House of Assembly, Mr Terkimbi Ikyange, says it is not the will of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government for Nigerians to experience economic hardship.

The speaker said this on Saturday in Makurdi at a ceremony organised by the Ikov Development Association (IDA), Makurdi Branch, in his honour.

He said the current economic recession in the country was creating the impression that the party had failed to live up to its responsibilities to Nigerians.

“It should be noted that the recession was largely caused by years of corruption perpetrated by public officers since the country’s return to democracy in 1999.

“The other factor is the recent fall in the international price of crude oil. That impact is heavy on us as a nation because we depend heavily on oil.

“All I say is for us to be patient with President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as he works assiduously to right those wrongs.”

He added that the actions so far taken by the present APC-led government showed that there would be dramatic improvement in the economy before the end of the year.

Mr Jonathan Ichaver, an APC Chieftain in the state, urged the State House of Assembly to ensure that all outdated laws were repealed.

“In this regard, I encourage the speaker to create the right atmosphere in the legislature for the enactment of progressive laws that would enhance peace and development.

“I urge the assembly to, without delay; repeal the law that allows the state government to tax economic trees and owners of boreholes.”

The Chairman of the occasion, Chief Ben Kershio, advised the speaker to assist the community by providing job opportunities for graduates from Ikov Council Ward of Ushongo Local Government Area.

Chief Sule Abenga, the Chairman, Makurdi Traditional Area Council, urged the people to pray fervently for the success of the present administration at all levels. (NAN)

•Photo shows APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun.