Apparently disturbed by the public outrage over his recent comments on the killings in Benue state by Fulani herdsmen, the Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong has tendered an apology to his Benue State counterpart, Samuel Ortom and the Benue people.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Governor Lalong said he was sorry for his remarks which he said were misinterpreted by the media.

His words: “I humbly apologize for my comment and I say I am very sorry. I have seen that my comments have in the last few days generated a lot of responses on the social media. I apologize for that.

“The responses to my comments are not necessary now; it does not matter now. I have great respect for the governor and the people of Benue State and I am for the unity of this country. I don’t want anybody to think that we are fighting the Benue people, we are all brothers and sisters.”

Governor Lalong also used the opportunity to solicit the support of all well-meaning Nigerians, especially the media towards finding a lasting solution to the crisis.

Lalong had last week, while speaking with State House correspondents shortly after his meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari, faulted the decision of Governor Ortom to enforce the implementation of the Anti – Open Grazing Law without considering alternatives.

The comment which was seen as insensitive and untimely by many Nigerians including Governor Ortom,  generated harsh criticisms over the past week from Nigerians on social media.