The immediate past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has called on the people of the state to support his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, in the interest of unity and progress.
The former governor’s remarks came in response to Alia’s claim that his administration, by law, established the State Civil Protective Guards, inaugurated last Saturday.
Supporters of Ortom have pushed back against Alia’s assertion, clarifying that the security outfit was initially established under Ortom’s leadership through legislative approval as the Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards.
They contend that the current administration merely amended the existing framework to remodel the outfit.
However, Ortom, in a statement issued by his media aide, Terver Akase, and made available to journalists late Monday, said he understood and appreciated all those who have held passionate discussions regarding the issue but wished to appeal to them to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance.
The statement read in part: “The attention of the immediate past governor, Samuel Ortom, has been drawn to the barrage of reactions and debates both in conventional and social media following the launch of the State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG), also known as ‘Anyam Nyor,’ by the current Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
“Many of the reactions have suggested that the present administration merely renamed the Community Volunteer Guards, which is a legacy of his administration. The former governor says it is natural to have differing opinions on governance and the direction of the state, but he implores those with strong views on the matter to remember that government is not a static entity; it is a dynamic and evolving system.
“He points out that the State Executive Council, in collaboration with the House of Assembly, has the constitutional power to make laws and amend existing ones to address development issues at any given period. Chief Ortom appeals to the people of the state to support Governor Alia in his leadership journey and pray for the success of the present administration, as it will ultimately be for the benefit of everyone, including himself.”
Ortom stated that he used the eight years of his administration to serve the people of the state to the best of his abilities, guided by a deep commitment to the collective welfare and the protection of the land.
He reaffirmed that he has no regrets over actions taken during his administration, particularly efforts to protect the people of Benue against perceived oppression.
“I have no regrets about my commitment and the sacrifices I made to defend the Benue people against oppression and external interests that sought to undermine our rights and heritage as a people.
“My actions were always motivated by a desire to uplift our people, secure our God-given land, and ensure a bright future for generations to come.
“The establishment of the Community Volunteer Guards, Livestock Guards, and the enactment of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law were the results of our pact with the people to always be on their side, as God Almighty was directing me,” the statement further read.
Ortom, however, encouraged the people of the state to refrain from hostility and divisive commentary in the media, saying, “Instead, let us rally round our Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, offering support and constructive criticism.
“It is imperative that we stand together as one people, united by our shared aspirations for growth and development,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Alia’s supporters commended the governor for aligning with the Federal Government, citing President Bola Tinubu’s phone call on the inauguration day as evidence of renewed collaboration between the state and the presidency.
