A former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has explained how he betrayed the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections.
Mr Ortom, who apologised to the PDP for imposing the then Speaker, Titus Uba, described his action as regrettable, saying that he imposed the candidate on the party despite obvious inadequate electoral chances in the polls.
He sought the forgiveness of his former aides, Dennis Ityavyar, Terkaa Ucha, for his wrong decision in imposing Mr Uba on them.
The sober Mr Ortom spoke in Makurdi while addressing his former appointees who visited him.
According to him, he decided without seeking God’s guidance.
“The mistake I made in 2023 was to impose a gubernatorial candidate on all of you who are in PDP. I did not ask God. We had a mock election in Vandeikya, and when the result came out, he came in a distant fourth.
“I called some people and consulted them, and they told me it was a difficult market to sell politically, but I pleaded with them, and they didn’t know how to say no to me.
“That was how we turned the process to favour him, and I did without asking God. That was a great mistake I made. I apologise to Denis Ityavyar, Angya and Terkaa Ucha, who came out number 1, 2 and 3 and to all of you.”
He expressed regret that despite investing in Mr Uba, including spending over N300 million on his medical treatment with government funds, the candidate won only in Guma (Ortom LGA) and Gwer West local government areas (Ortom’s wife’s home) during the election.
Mr Ortom apologised to his supporters and also faulted them for not challenging his decision at the time, urging them not to be afraid of their leaders but always to advise them when they are making a mistake.
He also revealed why he never went to court after the defeat, saying he never wanted to contest the election and the decision was taken without his consent and divine approval.
He said the experience had taught him not to do anything in life without consulting God first and seeking His approval.
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Mr Ortom said that as political activities begin to build toward 2027, he would not contest any election, but would stand as a pillar of support for all those contesting to ensure that leadership emerges through God’s will rather than political imposition.
He described his current political engagements with the All Progressives Congress (APC) as part of a strategic partnership aimed at promoting peace and inclusiveness in the State.
He said he remained in PDP, adding, “I am not going anywhere, but I believe in strategic partnership. Politics is about inclusion and interest, not fighting.
“We are not going to be hostile to any group but work together to confront the challenges facing Benue state.”
He noted that the political leadership of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, christened him as a central figure in Benue politics, urging political actors across party lines to work together for peace and stability in the state.
He called on politicians to quit insulting one another and cautioned youths and social media users to desist from abusing elders and political office holders, but to use social media to add value to themselves and the state.
