Samuel Ortom

Samuel Ortom, the former governor of Benue State, has stated that he is prepared to be reached whenever necessary to address matters pertaining to his government.

This was said by Ortom, a member of the People’s Democratic Party who was unsuccessful in his campaign for a Senate seat, in a statement released on Wednesday in Makurdi, the state capital, by his media assistant, Mr. Terver Akase.

“I am capable of responding to the issues being raised against me and other officials of my government and I have always made known my belief in the rule of law.

“I am ready to make myself available to respond to issues bordering on my administration whenever the need arises,” Ortom said.

In response to claimed provocation by the state’s ruling All Progressives Congress, he pleaded with his followers to maintain peace and adhere to the law rather than inflame the political climate.

Ortom praised the complaints made about his alleged harassment to anti-corruption organizations, as well as the arrests of his appointees and the impounding of his vehicles.

The former governor also recommended prudence and caution in anyone making pronouncements about the situation in order to avoid inflaming the political climate.

Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom claimed that if he had not joined the PDP, he would have been in charge of Peter Obi’s campaign for president of the Labour Party, LP.

Ortom stated that, despite being a PDP member, he favoured Obi while addressing at a forum.

The Benue governor said that although Obi, like other people, was not flawless, he possessed traits that Nigeria needed in a leader at this time in her history.

He added that if efforts to reach an understanding with the G-5 governors were unsuccessful, the national leadership of his party, led by Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, should bear all responsibility.

In an interview, Ortom said that while Obi is not flawless, like most people, he nevertheless bears the traits of the kind of leader Nigeria needs at this time in her history.

He also complimented President Olusegun Obasanjo for supporting Peter Obi in the difficult job of now leading Nigeria.

He said, “So, here is someone that is looking ahead and wants the best for our country, Nigeria. Today, he has recommended Peter Obi.

“Honestly, if I were not in PDP, I would have been the one at the forefront of carrying Peter Obi’s bag and campaigning for him because he is the best material so far.

“He is what this country needs to get things right. Somebody with clean records. That is not to be questioned, though nobody is perfect. Nobody is God, no human being is God. But here is somebody who has distinguished himself.

“So, if I were to offer advice on the best material for president, I would tell you that it is Peter Obi. But it is Obasanjo, a great patriot.

“He made some mistakes, especially on the issue of the third term that came, otherwise, nobody should contest the integrity and patriotism, forthrightness, and also the zeal to see a greater Nigeria more than President Obasanjo.”