From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Former Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom has declared that he lacks the authority as leader of the party in the state to dissolve the G-14 group, contrary to claims made by Senator Gabriel Suswam and other members of the party.
Ortom made this declaration during a courtesy visit from G-14 members and other party members from 14 local government areas of Tiv extraction at his Makurdi residence.
The former governor emphasised that the G-14, comprising elders who are united to promote peace and provide direction within the party, is not a party creation, stressing that as such, neither the party constitution nor he, as a leader, has the power to regulate its activities not to talk of dissolution.
He assured the group that the PDP in Benue State has benefited from their efforts to maintain peace and pledged to continue supporting them.
Ortom called on disgruntled members of the party to resolve differences through internal party mechanisms, rather than causing division.
He also announced at the gathering that he won’t contest any political office in 2027, citing satisfaction with God’s blessings.
The former governor warned detractors against intimidation, emphasizing his commitment to equity, fairness, and justice.
Representatives of Kwande elders assured him that the 14 local government areas of Tiv extraction and Benue youths firmly back his leadership, recognising the PDP’s sole authentic secretariat and leadership under Ortom.
