Ortom Challenges Alia on Governance Ahead of 2027 Election

Samuel Ortom, former governor of Benue State, through his ex-Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Terver Akase, urged Governor Alia to clarify his administration's record rather than attacking political opponents. Ortom's comments followed reported obstructions faced by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Party (NDC), during his humanitarian visit to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Makurdi.

Ortom questioned the government's accountability regarding resources since the removal of the fuel subsidy and its handling of critical issues such as insecurity, agriculture, infrastructure, and healthcare. He specifically criticized the government's response to a recent attack in Ayilamo, Logo Local Government Area, where residents and security personnel were killed.

Ortom also addressed allegations of his political affiliations, asserting his open support for Obi in the 2023 presidential election and his subsequent backing of President Bola Tinubu. He indicated that the growing attention on Aondoakaa, the PDP candidate, signifies a serious political challenge for Alia ahead of the 2027 election.