Former governor of Benue, Samuel Ortom, lands in EFCC net
Samuel Ortom, the immediate past Governor of Benue State, has been taken into custody by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Former Governor Samuel Ortom arrived at the Makurdi zonal office of the EFCC, located on Alor Gordon street in the Benue State capital, at 10:08 am.
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Accompanied by his media aide, Terver Akase, and Principal Special Assistant on Special Duties, Abraham Kwanhgu, Ortom willingly walked into the building in response to an invitation from the anti-graft agency. As of 11:25 am, Ortom remained within the premises, undergoing questioning by the EFCC officials.
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During a handover ceremony at the old banquet hall of the Government House in Makurdi, Ortom presented a comprehensive debt profile to Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, who assumed office after him.
The handover notes, consisting of three volumes, summarized Ortom’s eight-year administration.
The total income generated by the state during Ortom’s tenure was reported to be N734.9 billion as of April 2023. However, the state’s total debt, including unpaid salaries, pension arrears, loans, and bonds, stood at N187.7 billion. Ortom also disclosed a debt swap/reduction agreement of N97.716 billion between the state and the Federal Government, which would significantly reduce the overall debt profile.
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Ortom revealed that his administration had secured approvals for a N41 billion loan and a N20 billion bond. These funds were intended to facilitate infrastructural development projects across Benue State.
The former governor emphasized the importance of investments in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and road infrastructure to improve the standard of living for the people of Benue. He highlighted the need for sustainable development initiatives that would address the challenges faced by the state.
While in office, Samuel Ortom faced allegations of mismanagement and corruption, leading to public scrutiny and demands for accountability.
Critics accused the former governor of financial impropriety and neglecting crucial sectors despite the availability of substantial funds.
The EFCC’s decision to invite Ortom for questioning indicates that the anti-graft agency is actively investigating these allegations to ascertain their veracity.
The detainment of a prominent political figure like Ortom sends a strong signal that the EFCC is committed to fighting corruption and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions.
The detainment of Samuel Ortom by the EFCC raises several implications for the political landscape of Benue State.
It highlights the need for transparency and accountability in governance, setting a precedent for future leaders. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether Ortom’s tenure was marred by financial misconduct or if the allegations were unfounded.
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