Victor EzejaBenue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has finally endorsed Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi for the February 25 election.
Ortom, who has never hidden his preference for Obi despite the difference in political party affiliation, openly declared his support for the LP presidential candidate during a Townhall meeting in Markurdi on Thursday, 16th February.
At the towhall meeting that was attended by stakeholders across the 276 councils wards of Benue state organised by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in support of Obi-Datti presidential bid, Governor Ortom said his decision to support Obi was based on his conviction that he was more prepared in all ramifications for the task of rescuing the country.
Ortom, who was physically present at the event, applauded the qualities of the Labour Party presidential candidate, noting that he is among the top three contenders.
Obi, who could not physically attended the meeting due to inability to fly as a result of bad wheather, addressed the gathering virtually.
He thanked Ortom and many others in Benue State for throwing their weight behind him, and assured them that Benue will never remain the same if he is elected in upcoming polls.
Ortom said Obi is mentally and physically prepared to tackle thorny challenges facing Nigeria such as insecurity and will also unite the country.
Ortom’s open declaration of support for Obi generated a rousing ovation from the participants who went ecstatic chanting Obi! Obi! Obi! immediately the governor drop his statement. Ortom joined them in the chant.
He said the 2023 general elections is a time when Nigerians should jettison religious/ethnic sentiments and political party affiliation and vote for a leader who has character, is God-fearing, and competent to deliver good governance to save the country from her many woes.
His words: “We must, in this 2023, fashion a new Nigeria, Nigeria that will give the people equity, fairness, and justice.
“The PDP has failed Nigerians, APC has failed Nigerians, political parties have failed Nigerians, even Labour Party has failed Nigerians. We must therefore look at individuals, those people who can deliver.
“So, this is not about party, I am not in Labour Party but I am working for Peter Obi. Peter Obi will make sure that we sleep with our two eyes closed. These unnecessary killings that are going on in our country will stop.
“I have chosen to support him. I appreciate you all for choosing Peter Obi. Of the three presidential candidates, Peter Obi has the character, competence to lead Nigeria,” Ortom declared.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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