<<< By Terver Akase >>>
Prominent sons and daughters of Isherev and Utyondu from Guma and Makurdi local government areas of Benue State yesterday paid a solidarity visit to Governor Samuel Ortom at the Benue Peoples House, in Makurdi.
They assured him of their support to enable his administration to deliver on its promises to the people.
The delegation which was led by the member representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Mr Dickson Tarkighir and the member representing Makurdi North in the State Assembly, Mr. Avine Agbom described the victory of Governor Ortom at the 2015 elections and all the way to the Supreme Court as an act of God which must be accepted by all.
The Acting Tor Tiv and Ter Guma, Chief Ivokor Unongo was also present during the visit.
Speaking on the occasion, former President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Augustine Utsaha, retired, commended Governor Ortom for what he described as his high level of maturity, his open-door policy and willingness to receive those who did not support his governorship bid.
Justice Utsaha admitted that though the Governor was not fairly treated by some sections of MINDA, he should forgive the people and accommodate them.
Speaking on behalf of the people of Isherev, Zaki Joseph Gborigo, said Governor Ortom had demonstrated the qualities of a leader who was not vindictive and as such deserved the support of all.
He appealed to the Governor to construct the Nigeria School of Military Engineering, NASME – Yelewata road to ease the movement of people from the area.
Chief William Ato who spoke for Utyondu, implored the Governor to apply the same spirit in which he served Guma as council Chairman on his governorship as this would add value to his stewardship of the state.
In their separate speeches, Messrs Tarkighir and Agbom said time had come for the people of Makurdi and Guma to set aside political sentiments and differences and support Governor Ortom to serve the state selflessly as he was already doing.
Responding, Governor Ortom said he held no grudge against anyone including those who worked hard to thwart his ambition to be Governor.
He said even when brothers fight, there comes a time for peace and reconciliation.
The Governor assured the people that they will be part of his administration’s policies and actions, urging them to be hospitable to investors who seek to do business in their localities.
He said the Daudu-Gbajimba and Uni-Agric-Gbajimba roads will be constructed among other projects in the area and appealed for understanding as the prices of oil continue to fall and adversely affect the economy.