Delegates at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) convention in Benue State have returned Governor Samuel Ortom as the standard bearer of the party ahead of 2019 gubernatorial election.
Ortom emerged the party’s candidate after pulling the total of 2,210 votes to defeat his closest rival, Surv. John Tondu who pulled 475 votes.
The election which was rigorous and tortuous, was held in a most peaceful and transparent atmosphere.
According to the returning officer of the election, Hajia Zainab Maina, “the election was conducted in line with laid down rules and procedures”.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Ortom promised to unite the state and design a blueprint that will spur developments across the state.
Governor Ortom said he remains committed to “the leadership that is anchored on transparency and the fear of God”.
He called on the people of Benue and Nigeria to join the PDP and help salvage the Nigerian situation.
“I called on Benue people and all Nigerians to join hands with the PDP, having apologised for the wrongs of the past, so we can rescue this country.
“I was in sojourn in APC and there it was very difficult for me to exercise my responsibility, but here I am, now a free man. This marks the end of politics of godfatherism in Benue.
“The government of Benue state shall be run by the People, where everyone shall be stakeholders, all hands must be on deck, to move the state forward”, the Governor said.
Ortom also thanked the People of Benue, especially, the leaders and delegates of the party as well as the co-aspirants, for making it possible for his emergency as the PDP candidate for 2019 election.
okaynews.com recalls that the Ortom decamped from APC to PDP the party’s primary election.
