MAKURDI, Benue State, Nigeria: Chief Samuel Ortom, the immediate past governor of Benue State located in the Middle Belt region of Nigeria, has announced on Saturday, April 4, 2026, that he will not run for any elected political office during the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Okay News reports that the former governor clarified his political future through an official statement signed by his media adviser and consultant, Doctor Terver Akase. The document was distributed to journalists in Makurdi, which serves as the capital city of Benue State.
This public clarification was issued to directly address unverified reports circulating on social media platforms. These digital rumors falsely claimed that Ortom had already declared his intention to campaign for the Benue North-West Senatorial District seat in the national parliament.
Instead of seeking a new office, the former governor stated that his focus has shifted. He emphasized his dedication to supporting democratic principles across the country. Additionally, he plans to dedicate his time to strengthening his political organization, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), by providing guidance as an elder statesman rather than competing as a candidate.
Ortom asked citizens to dismiss the online rumors, labeling the claims as completely fabricated.
To ensure his stance was not misunderstood, Ortom said: “I have no intention whatsoever to contest any elective office in 2027. I have said this clearly, publicly, and repeatedly.”
He further noted his frustration with the continuous rumors, adding: “I expect that a position stated this plainly would not require translation or creative reinterpretation.”
