No factions exist within PDP – Ortom

The immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, has stated that there are no factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), countering recent insinuations to the contrary.

Ortom emphasized that the Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party is the recognized leadership, asserting that anything suggesting otherwise does not represent the party.

Speaking while hosting members of the newly elected Benue State Working Committee (SWC) at his residence in Makurdi, Ortom acknowledged the efforts of the Damagum-led NWC amidst the party’s challenges. He called for support and prayers for the leadership instead of criticism.

“There is no faction in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and we remain committed to equity, fairness, and justice. I have not deviated from this principle, and we are loyal to the party,” Ortom stated.

“We do not wish to be a dissident group, nor do we belong to one. Therefore, we support the Damagum-led NWC of our party. They have done their best; while they are not perfect, no one is.”

He continued, “They have performed admirably given the challenges we face in the PDP and deserve commendation rather than condemnation. If there are issues, we have various organs of party leadership to address them. The Board of Trustees (BOT), Governors’ Forum, National Executive Committee (NEC), and the NWC itself, along with other stakeholders, are in place for discussions.”

Ortom reiterated, “They have done well, and we have our party constitution to guide us. I see no reason to criticize them; they have worked hard. We will stand with them and continue to operate under their direction and support them with our prayers until further notice.”

Earlier, Benue State PDP Chairman Chief Adaji expressed gratitude to Chief Ortom for his efforts in strengthening the party and restoring its prominence. He also shared plans by the SWC to develop and rebuild the party for success in upcoming elections. The chairman reaffirmed the commitment of SWC members to the party’s success and thanked supporters for their faith in the leadership, promising not to let them down.