Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue North East Senatorial District on Tuesday rose on the side of governor Samuel Ortom in the face of unwarranted media attacks on the Governor by the Federal Government and leaders of All Progressives Congress, APC.
The stakeholders who met in Katsina-Ala, passed a vote of confidence on Governor Ortom in a unanimous voice vote and urged him to continue to serve as the voice of helpless Nigerians who are victims of attacks in parts of the country.
They described as unacceptable, the sponsored campaign of calumny waged against the Governor by APC and the Federal Government, saying Benue indigenes have been victims of unprovoked attacks which the governor was feeling the heat more than anyone else.
The stakeholders frowned at the utterances of the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, George Akume on the Governor and demanded a public apology from the Minister.
They expressed shock that Akume who is a former Governor of the state threw caution to the winds and tagged Benue people as criminals who have been stockpiling arms and attacking themselves.
Chairman of the party in the Zone, Hon Azua Ashongu in a lead speech on the occasion, said Governor Ortom has been speaking the minds of Benue people and other Nigerians.
He said anyone who attacks the Governor should be prepared to contend with millions of Nigerians who love justice and peace.
Hon Ashongu stated that the party will not fold its arms and watch enemies of peace get away with their acts of impunity and hatred towards the Governor.
He said it is unfortunate that some sons of Benue have sold their conscience and betrayed their people to join forces with enemies of the state.
The PDP Zone A Chairman told the Muhammadu Buhari government to concentrate on fulfilling its promises to Nigerians and stop harassing people who hold alternative views on national issues.
Others who spoke at the meeting included elder Jemtor Anyiin, Dr James Atsor, Hon Terfa Atoza Hindan and elder Chado Labar who all commended Governor Ortom for standing firmly with his people in the face of adversity.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Terver Akase in a remark, thanked the Zone A stakeholders for the huge support given to his principal and assured the meeting that the Governor will not be discouraged despite the organized and sustained attacks on him.
