By Michael Chukwuebuka, Reporting…
AMID crisis in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has pledged to give Governor Nyesom Wike his full support in his dispute with the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
The four governors
Governor Ortom made this known publicly during a night party where he hosted four of the party’s governors in the Government House on Sunday 6th of November, at the state’s capital, Makurdi.
The four governors in attendance included: Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
During his speech, Governor Ortom expressed his gratitude to Wike for his immense commitment and support for the people of Benue State during their ‘trying moments.’
“Many have wondered why I have chosen to swim with Wike. Many have wondered why I have chosen to walk with him in the midst of storms and threats and also fire and brimstone.
“Many have wondered, but I still remember him. This is the man who stood with us during our trying moments.
“He came out and did not fear the threats about federal might and what have you. I will stand with him and I remain with him because I am not a betrayer,” he said.
While lamenting the recent killing of 18 persons by suspected fulani men in his local government area last week, the bereaved governor also added that he would never support or campaign for the reelection of another fulani man, come 2023 General Elections.
“To hell with Atiku and anyone supporting him. They should go and tell him. You want me to be a slave for a Fulani. It’s better I die. Anybody supporting Atiku is an enemy of Benue.
“My people are being killed and you want me to be quiet? My tenure ends in May and you can do whatever you want if you think you have the powers.
“I have written my will. When I gave it to my wife, she cried all night. If I die at 62, many of my mates have gone a long time ago and If I die today, I’m a fulfilled person but let it be recorded that I died resisting the invasion and killing of my people.
“I will never support a Fulani man to become president. If there is another person who is ready to work with me and ensure the security of my people, I will work with him.”
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