Oche, Benue leaders, sympathizers pay last respect to Bernard Ortom

The Honourable Federal Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission in Benue State, James Oche, yesterday joined other leaders, stakeholders, elder statesmen, family members, and sympathizers from all walks of life to witness the funeral of the late Bernard Ortom, younger brother to the immediate past Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom.

Held in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, the funeral attracted the who’s who across political and religious lines to Gbajimba, the Guma Local Government Area headquarters.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the funeral, Oche condoled with Governor Ortom and urged the family to accept the passing of Mr. Bernard as the will of God, as death is the lone pathway to the heavenly afterlife.

Oche stressed that although Bernard departed at a time when his counsel was most needed, his family should take solace in the peaceful and kind life he lived.

At the funeral, Oche accompanied the Minority Leader of the Senate, Comrade Senator Abba Moro. His colleagues, Senators Titus Zam and Emmanuel Udende, representing Benue North-West and North-East, respectively, were also present.

Others present were Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, Chief Mike Aondoakaa, SAN, Ambassador Iorwuese Hagher, Justice Mary Abounu, and others.

Aside from James Oche, Senator Abba Moro was accompanied by the State PDP Chairman, Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji, and other members of the State Working Committee of the PDP; Minority Leader, Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mike Audu; Member representing Okpokwu State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Anthony Agom; Member representing Ohimini State Constituency, Hon. Isaac Ochekliye; Former Deputy Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Egli Ahubi Johnson; Former Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Hon. (Mrs.) Amina Audu; Former Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Hon. Gabriel Olofu, and other dignitaries.

Also present were traditional rulers, clergymen, other political and opinion leaders, captains of industry, diplomats, and respected members of the academia.