2019: Benue community endorses Ortom for second term

The people of Kwande geopolitical area of Benue State, which comprises Ushongo and Kwande local government areas have pledged their support for the re-election of Governor Samuel Ortom next year.

Stakeholders from the area spoke yesterday during a courtesy call on Governor Ortom at the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi.

Retired Major J.O. Mayange spoke for Ushongo while elder Jonathan Chaver spoke for Kwande, with Wantaregh Paul Unongo as elder statesmen from the geopolitical zone.

The three speakers saluted Ortom’s tremendous achievements in the areas of development including security, education, health, agriculture in the face of lean resources, noting that his firm stand on the Open Grazing Prohibition and Branches Establishment Law 2017 was worth celebrating.

Wantaregh Paul Unongo particularly noted that Nigeria would soon learn from Governor Ortom regarding the need to ranch all categories of livestock, stressing that the forces against him stemmed from mere jealousy.

The Kwande stakeholders also made case for the Benue North East Senatorial seat, saying it was theirs by zoning and that they were not willing to relinquish it to any other person in 2019 as they have eminently qualified persons to occupy the positon.

Responding, Governor Ortom acknowledged the overwhelming support of Kwande people to his election in 2015, describing them as dependable and trustworthy political associates.

The Governor stated that his administration would continue to prudently utilize the little resources at its disposal.

The Governor urged the people of Kwande and Zone A in general to summon a meeting of the All Progressives Congress and dialogue over the issue of senate, appealing that no crisis should emanate over the matter.