|
Listen now
|
George Kajo, Makurdi.
Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom says he has no regrets standing with people of the state in the face of persecution and lost of senatorial ambition.
Governor Ortom bared his mind at the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi when the Association of Benue Indigenous Publishers presented an award to him as “Greatest Leader of Our Time”.
The Governor who received the award before the commencement of the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, said he was honoured that Benue people gave him their mandate for two terms, stressing that he had no regrets standing with the people against all odds.
“I am happy for this award. I have no regrets for being who I am and for doing what I did for my people in Benue State. I have no regrets at all. In fact, I have no regrets losing the Senatorial election.
“I am proud of my people who elected me as Governor for the first term. And despite the opposition from the Federal Government, they elected me for a second term in 2019,” Governor Ortom stated.
He continued: “The Bible says all things work together for them that love God and all who are called according to His purpose. I love God and I am called according to His purpose. So, whatever happens to me, that is how God wants it and I give glory to His name. No going back.”
Governor Ortom used the occasion to invite the public to his Thanksgiving service to mark the end of his tenure and also for losing his senatorial election which comes up May 28th, 2023 saying, “I don’t know what would happen if I had gone to Abuja. So whichever way, I am grateful to the Almighty God.”
In his remarks, President of the Association of Benue Indigenous Publishers, Mr Akaha Sule stated that the award was in recognition of Governor Ortom’s milestones in the areas of road construction, provision of quality healthcare, educational development and upliftment of the traditional institution.
According to him, “We have come to the firm conclusion that you are a worthy, fearless, selfless, patriotic and great leader of repute. We have arrived at this, considering the bold/ fearless steps you have taken in defence of our fatherland even at the detriment of your second term aspiration as Governor, as well as Senatorial ambition.”
Mr Sule further lauded the Governor for promoting the rule of law and “demonstrating patriotism by patronizing local contractors including those in the opposition just as you have patronized local manufacturers to discourage capital flight.” he stated.