Governor-elect of Benue State, Samuel Ortom of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has dedicated his victory at the polls to the Almighty God and to the people of Benue state.
In his victory speech, Ortom described his victory as a profound honour to him and his deputy saying “It is with gratitude to God that my deputy and I accept the second mandate that you have given to us at the just concluded inconclusive elections.
“Having dedicated the State to God, I invite all the people of Benue to become more committed in obeying and serving God as it is instructed in Job 36:11 that ‘If they obey and serve Him they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in pleasures.'”
Ortom who insisted that it was Benue People’s victory stated, “I dedicate this victory to God, who assured me long ago that there will be giants on the way to hinder but He will surely grant me victory.
“I also dedicate this victory to the good people of Benue State and especially all members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.”
Ortom, who also described it as victory for all, called on all those who contested with him to join him to build the Benue of a collective dream.
He advised his supporters to engage in behaviour that would promote peace and reconciliation as they celebrate.
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“Avoid use of hurtful and insultive political and folk songs. By the grace of God, I will set up a Peace, Truth and Reconciliation Committee. This will enable us to find ways to truly forgive one another, reconcile and usher in peace and development in Benue State, he told his supporters.
Ortom acknowledged he made mistakes in his first term, but said lessons have been learnt and by the grace of God, those mistakes would be corrected and the new mandate would be greater than the first in delivering dividends of democracy to the Benue people.
“Our days in the wilderness are over. The Bible assures us that “better is the end of a matter than the beginning.”
He expressed deep appreciation to the entire people of the state for the various sacrifices they have made during the election. “We appreciate INEC staff, security personnel, election observers, and Benue voters who have worked for the success of the elections.
“I specially appreciate my lovely wife, Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom for her support and staying power throughout the campaigns. I also appreciate the State chairman of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Sir John Ngbede, and all members of the State Working Committee, our party leaders, Senators David Mark and Iyorchia Ayu, Senators elect, Rt. Hon. Dr. Gabriel Suswam, Rt. Hon. Orker Jev, and Comrade Abba Moro, as well as all our newly elected leaders at all levels for their great roles in our collective victory.
“I equally appreciate the DG and members of our campaign team, our canvassers, our party members and supporters for the great job they have done. They gave their all. I thank all members of the State Executive and Security Councils for their roles in this victory. Our God is good,” he added
