The immediate past Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has revealed that he will not contest any election in 2027, stating that it was a directive from God.
Ortom made this statement on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) G-14 group in Makurdi.
The G-14 group consists of PDP elders from the 14 Tiv-speaking local government areas of Benue State.
During the meeting, Ortom emphasised that he has no choice but to honour God’s instruction.
The former governor candidly admitted that his failure to consult God before participating in the 2023 elections was the reason for his defeat.
He explained that while his people purchased the senatorial forms for him, he did not seek divine approval before accepting to run.
“I’m not contesting the 2027 election. I understand why I lost the 2023 election – I didn’t consult God.
My people bought the forms for me, and I accepted them without first seeking God’s guidance,” Ortom confessed.
He further revealed that God had since provided him with clarity about his future political endeavours, stating that he has been instructed to be patient and wait for further direction.
“God has revealed everything to me. He has asked me to wait for Him,” he added.
Ortom, however, expressed the PDP’s commitment to reclaiming the Benue Government House in the 2027 general elections, despite his decision to step back from contesting.
He reassured the party members that he would continue to offer his unwavering support, stressing that personal ambition should never supersede the collective interests of the party.
Reflecting on his time in office, the former governor spoke about the sacrifices he made for the state, which included distancing himself from family and friends to focus on governance.
Ortom disclosed that, after his tenure, he had planned to go on a sabbatical to rest, but the elders of the party convinced him otherwise, urging him to remain active in party affairs.
Ortom’s announcement comes at a time when the PDP is strategising for the 2027 elections, with the hope of regaining political control in Benue State.
Despite his personal decision not to run, Ortom’s influence within the party is expected to play a significant role in its future direction and success.
In 2023, Ortom’s senatorial bid ended in defeat, a result he now attributes to his lack of spiritual consultation.
As a result, his decision not to contest in the next election is seen as a shift towards aligning his political career with his faith.
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