Former Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, has declared the readiness of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) hierarchy to reconcile all factions and restore unity, describing the party as “one indivisible entity.”
Ortom stressed that prior to the party’s National Convention, a court of competent jurisdiction halted proceedings. However, some groups ignored the order, going ahead with activities that were later nullified by a judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, which dissolved the election.
A member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and leader of the PDP in Benue State, Ortom emphasized that efforts are being intensified to resolve all internal differences amicably in the near future.
Addressing a reception in his honor at Judges Quarters, Makurdi, Ortom assured party members that despite internal wranglings, the PDP, as a major opposition party, will not collapse nor be relegated to the background.
Ortom also sought forgiveness from party stalwarts, accepting responsibility for the party’s loss in the last election, which he attributed to the imposition of former Speaker Hon. Titus Uba as the PDP gubernatorial flagbearer, who failed to gain electorate support.
“Pledging never to repeat such a costly mistake again, I insist that henceforth, all critical decisions must have the approval of key stakeholders to ensure a sense of belonging,” Ortom said.
The former governor further highlighted the importance of collaboration with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as necessary for achieving common goals and driving the development of Benue State.
Speaking at the same reception, former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, reaffirmed his strategic partnership with Ortom and the PDP. He emphasized that his engagement was anchored on the mutual respect and shared commitment between the APC leader in Benue and North Central, Senator George Akume, and PDP leader Ortom.
Aondoakaa praised Ortom’s leadership qualities, describing him as a true leader who prioritized inclusivity, unity, and peace during his tenure as governor.
On the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial race, Aondoakaa, himself a governorship aspirant under the APC, insisted that Governor Hyacinth Alia must be evicted, stating: “Come rain or shine, someone who rules alone is not fit to remain in office. Collectively, we must replace him with a liberal-minded leader.”
Other speakers at the occasion, including Prof. Dennis Tysvyaar, Dr. Tersoo Loko, and Hon. Ucha, eulogized Dr. Samuel Ortom for his purposeful leadership.
Additionally, PDP gubernatorial aspirants for 2027 pledged to follow in Ortom’s footsteps, promising to uphold his vision and leadership style.