Benue visit: Why I allowed Obi use my Vehicle – Ortom

Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom has clarified why he allowed presidential candidate Peter Obi to use his vehicle during his recent visit to the region. In a statement released through his media aide Terver Akase, Ortom explained that denying Obi transportation would have been considered petty and unbecoming of a former governor. The incident occurred when Obi visited Benue as part of his efforts to meet with victims and families impacted by the June 2025 massacre in Yelewata.

Ortom faced criticism from the Benue State Government, which accused him of facilitating Obi's visit and questioned his decision to provide transportation for a presidential candidate while publicly supporting President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 election. The controversy arose after Obi's visit to Makurdi was interrupted when youths blocked his convoy near Gyado Villa, preventing him from proceeding to Yelewata for a condolence visit.

The state government alleged that Ortom arranged for the vehicle used to transport Obi, identifying it as a Toyota Land Cruiser registered in his name.

Despite the controversy, Ortom defended his decision to assist Obi, stating that it was a courtesy and a sign of basic respect. He argued that such an act should have been the responsibility of the Benue State Government, given Obi's status as a former governor and presidential candidate. Ortom also dismissed the notion that his gesture indicated political disloyalty, calling the accusations "intellectually dishonest and politically immature."

He emphasized that extending such courtesies across political lines should not be seen as evidence of betrayal, maintaining that his decision was based on a sense of humanity and statesmanship.