MAKURDI, NIGERIA — Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has explained why he lent his vehicle to Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi during his recent visit to the state, describing the gesture as a demonstration of statesmanship and hospitality amid accusations from political opponents.
Ortom made the clarification on Saturday during a media briefing in Makurdi, where he addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to provide logistical support to Obi after the NDC presidential candidate was reportedly blocked from entering the state. He said he acted in the spirit of brotherhood and respect for a fellow Nigerian who was on a legitimate mission.
“Peter Obi is my brother and a former governor. He came to Benue State on a legitimate visit. When I learnt that he was stranded, I offered him my vehicle to enable him to move around. That is what any reasonable person would do,” Ortom stated.
The former governor said his action should not be misconstrued as a political endorsement, adding that he remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party and is committed to the party’s success in 2027. He noted that hospitality transcends political affiliation, and that he would extend the same courtesy to any other Nigerian leader who needed assistance.
“I am a PDP man. I have not endorsed Peter Obi or any other candidate. But when a fellow Nigerian is in need, you help him. That is what we do in Benue. Politics should not divide us,” he said.
Ortom’s comments came amid reports that he had been criticised by some members of the PDP for lending his vehicle to Obi, with some accusing him of secretly supporting the NDC candidate. The former governor dismissed the allegations, saying they were the handiwork of mischief-makers.
“I have heard people say I am supporting Peter Obi. That is not true. I lent him a vehicle; I did not lend him my party. There is a difference,” he said.
The former governor also urged political actors in the state to embrace tolerance and avoid actions that could undermine peace and stability. He said the 2027 elections should be about ideas and policies, not personality clashes or the politics of bitterness.
Obi’s visit to Benue State had been shrouded in controversy after the NDC presidential candidate was reportedly prevented from entering the state by security operatives. The incident sparked outrage among supporters of the former Anambra governor, who accused the state government of using security agencies to block his visit. The Benue State Government denied the allegations, saying Obi was not blocked but only advised to reschedule his visit due to security concerns.
Ortom said he had not spoken to Obi about the incident, but noted that the NDC candidate was welcome to visit Benue at any time. “This is a democratic country. Every Nigerian has the right to move freely and engage with the people. Nobody should be stopped from visiting any part of the country,” he stated.
The former governor also called on the Federal Government to ensure that opposition parties are allowed to campaign without hindrance, noting that a vibrant opposition is essential to the health of Nigeria’s democracy. He urged political leaders to place the interests of the nation above partisan considerations, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.
“The unity and stability of Nigeria are more important than any political ambition. We must all work together to ensure that our democracy matures and that the people are the true beneficiaries of governance,” Ortom said.
