Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has granted relief to 8 convicted prisoners on death row and freed 13 other convicts sentenced to life imprisonment.
Governor Ortom announced this Sunday, May 28th, 2023 during a Valedictory Thanksgiving Service to mark his 8 years in office as Benue State Governor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Signs and Wonders Parish, Gboko Road, Makurdi.
“To mark the celebration of this valedictory Thanksgiving to God for the successful completion of my tenure as Governor, I have approved the report of the prerogative of mercy to convert the death sentence of eight convicts to life imprisonment.
“I have also approved the release of 11 convicts sentenced to life imprisonment and paid the fine of two inmates who will be granted freedom,” he stated.
The Governor, who was in the company of wife, Dr. Eunice Ortom also disclosed that he was finishing his tenure stronger as a Christian, stressing that he remained grateful to God and people of the state for giving him the opportunity to serve for the past eight years.
Governor Ortom appreciated outgoing members of his cabinet, the judiciary and legislature, saying without them he couldn’t have succeeded.
He stressed that there was mutual cooperation and understanding between the three arms of government, pointing out that his administration has enacted more laws in the history of the state to ensure the rule of law.
Governor Ortom further thanked traditional rulers for the counsel and encouragement they offered to his administration.
In his remarks, Deputy Governor of the State, Engr. Benson Abounu recounted his harmonious working relationship with the Governor, saying the administration achieved milestones in several sectors and they were “leaving the state stronger.”
According to Engr Abounu, the enactment of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law by the administration was a legacy achievement acknowledged throughout the country.
Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Titus Uba noted that Ortom was created by God for a special purpose in the life of the state, recounting how the Governor brought him to political limelight and above all, closer to God, adding that the Governor will be remembered as the voice of the voiceless.
Chief Judge of the State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese acknowledged that governance is a difficult task, however, Governor Ortom has done his best, and praised his non interference in with judicial processes, noting that he upheld the rule of law.
The State Head of Service, Mrs. Veronica Onyeke extolled the Governor for strengthening the civil service through reforms, recruitment and promotion of staff.
Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse affirmed that Governor Ortom worked hard to maintain peace and development, noting that he did not interfere in the traditional institution and apologised to Governor Ortom for all he went through as a result of doing the will of the people of the State by enacting the Open Grazing Prohibition Law, which was a creation of the people.
The Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty, John Elaigwu Odogbo described the Governor as a “courageous, fearless and indefatigable leader” who will be remembered for standing with his people in the face of trials.
Acting State Chairman of PDP, Hon. Isaac Mffo in his goodwill message stated that the Governor has worked within the ambit of the party’s manifesto meeting the aspirations of the people and providing critical Infrastructure.
In an exhortation, Pastor-in-Charge of RCCG Region 40 headquarters, Pastor S. A. Folasayo commended the Governor for the ability to combine his political office with the work of God and fearlessly stood for truth, justice and equity, adding that the country was in dire need of leaders with such qualities.
Pastor Folasayo admonished Christians to watch their ways as one day, the circles of beginnings and endings will close and all will appear before God for judgement.
Members of the Benue State Executive and Security Council, political and traditional leaders as well as party stalwarts were present at the church service.
Nathaniel Ikyur
Chief Press Secretary
May 28th, 2023
