Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State stood confidently before
the gathered crowd during the
valedictory session for members of the State
Executive Council and other top government appointees. The old banquet hall of
the Government House in Makurdi was filled with a mix of anticipation and
respect for the governor’s words.
With conviction in his voice, Governor Ortom declared that he
harbored no fear of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and was
prepared to submit himself to the anti-graft agency if called upon. He
emphasized that he had not tainted his hands with corruption and had nothing to
hide.
Addressing his appointees directly, the governor urged them
to remain steadfast and unafraid if they were ever summoned by the EFCC for
questioning. He assured them that he had no hidden agendas or illicit activities,
urging anyone accusing him of any crime to come forward and present their
evidence. Governor Ortom exuded an air of confidence, bolstered by his clean
conscience.
“I am not a coward to run away from the EFCC,” he
proclaimed, his voice resonating with unwavering resolve. “If they come
for me, I will willingly follow them. My investments are solely in this state,
and I have no holdings in Europe or anywhere else.”
Governor Ortom’s commitment to transparency extended beyond
his own actions. He made it clear that he was not dissolving his cabinet and
requested his Commissioners to remain in their positions until the day of
handover, which was slated for noon on May 29.
Expressing gratitude to the members of the Council, the
governor acknowledged their contributions to the remarkable achievements of his
administration. He promised to maintain their relationships even after leaving
office, cherishing the camaraderie they had built during their time together.
In a show of solidarity, the members of the Council took
turns expressing their heartfelt appreciation to Governor Ortom for the
opportunity to serve and contribute to the development of the state. They
pledged their unwavering support to him, ensuring that they would stand by his
side as a united family in his future endeavors.
As the valedictory session came to a close, Governor Ortom
left the hall with his head held high, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and
transparency. His unwavering determination to face any scrutiny and his
commitment to the welfare of Benue State had etched him into the annals of the
state’s history as a leader who led by example and stood firm in his
convictions.
