Ortom Accuses Alia of Corruption in Benue State

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, Samuel Ortom, the immediate past governor of Benue State, publicly criticized his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, during an interaction with journalists in Makurdi. Ortom accused Alia of hypocrisy and failing to account for N139.8 billion during his eight-year tenure.

He pledged to expose what he termed the "rot" in Alia's administration, alleging that it involved the outright looting of state resources and ceding land to foreign interests. Ortom stated that remaining silent would imply an admission of guilt and described Alia's actions as persecution.

He also challenged Alia to a public debate to showcase the performance of their respective administrations. Ortom's comments were met with a response from Alia's chief press secretary, Kula Tersoo, who dismissed Ortom's claims as a vendetta.

Ortom's administration faced scrutiny over its handling of state resources, and he expressed regret over previous statements made about George Akum, a former senator, emphasizing the need for unity in advancing Benue State's interests.