- Former Governor Ortom advises successor Alia to prioritize reconciliation with SGF Akume for the advancement of Benue State
- Ortom emphasizes unity’s significance for development during a public lecture in Makurdi commemorating his 63rd birthday
Samuel Ortom, the former governor of Benue State, advised his successor, Hyacinth Alia, to prioritize reconciliation with Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), for the state’s advancement.
During a public lecture in Makurdi to commemorate his 63rd birthday, Ortom conveyed his advice to Alia, emphasizing the significance of unity for development.
“I appreciate the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, who sent a message to congratulate me on my birthday. I look at the last two paragraphs of the message, and I think it’s important to return it to him, too.
“The governor must sheath his sword and find reconciliation with the SGF. This is the first time SGF is coming to our state; we have never had one before, so we can join hands for the development of the state,” he said.
He also extended his willingness to assist the current administration in fostering peaceful coexistence whenever required.
Tensions between Governor Alia and Akume have persisted since the APC assumed power in May 2023, with disputes over control of the party structure in the state.