Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has advised critics against dealing with the new government of Fr. Hyacinth Alia as they did with his.
The governor made this known on Tuesday During a farewell visit to the Tiv Area Traditional Council at the Tor Tiv Palace in Gboko to formally inform the council about his exit from office in a few days, .
“Let the insults, blackmail, and lies peddled against me and other leaders end with my administration. Let a line be drawn and should not be transferred to the next administration because it is unhealthy for development,” Ortom stressed, stating that the unity and peace of Tivland must be upheld at all times devoid of partisanship.
Ortom, while speaking with the Tiv Traditional Council, advised the council to kick against partisan politics aimed at ruining the collective interest of the Tiv nation.
The governor, who holds the honorific chieftaincy title of “Nyamkyume I Tiv”, informed the traditional rulers that after his exit from office, he plans on remaining backstage, adding that he will pledge his allegiance to any noble cause that would advance the interest of the State.
Ortom also reaffirmed his commitment to any initiative aimed at bringing development to Tivland and Benue State in general.
He also appreciated the traditional rulers for their constant support throughout his administration and thanked them for standing by him during turbulent moments.
Responding to the governor’s speech, the Tor Tiv and Chairman of Tiv Area Traditional Council, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, on behalf of the Council, acknowledged how Governor Ortom protected his people during his tenure.
He appreciated the governor for not succumbing to intimidation, victimisation, or blackmail from high quarters, saying that posterity will positively judge the governor for all the sacrifices he has made for his people.
Ayatse continued by saying that Governor Ortom is completing his tenure on a good note, and will remain relevant in the socio-political affairs of the country. He also acknowledged that the governor will be needed in the future by his people for other responsibilities and encouraged him to remain focused.
Ortom was also commended for introducing reforms in the traditional institution as well as prioritising the welfare of traditional rulers, pointing out the construction of ultra-modern palaces for the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma as well as the provision of vehicles, among others.
Ortom was also adorned by the traditional rulers, who also prayed that God continues to protect the governor.
