The Utange Community in Ushongo Local Government Area has pledged continued support for former Governor Samuel Ortom, describing him as a dependable leader who has consistently stood by them.
They made their position known during a political meeting held on Saturday at Akerior, where critical stakeholders, youth groups, and party faithful gathered to deliberate on the way forward.
They said Ortom’s insistence on zoning and fair play was instrumental to the emergence of one of their own, Asawa Joseph, as the first elected chairman of the local government council from Utange.
The community urged Asawa and David Mzer to maintain their loyalty to the former Governor and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), advising them not to allow personal ambition to override the collective interest of the community.
READ ALSO
Without Accurate Data, We’re Planning Blind — Population Expert
Over 3,000 Displaced Yelwata Residents Reject Calls To Return Home
Benue Now an Empty Food Basket -Tarkighir Laments Insecurity Crisis
They emphasized that unity under Ortom’s leadership would keep Utange politically relevant, especially at a time when the state’s political landscape is witnessing shifts.
In his remarks, Hon. Asawa reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, stating that his brief alliance with a coalition that joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was due to concerns about inclusion.
He said he later withdrew from the coalition after realizing that the new platform did not offer genuine representation for his people and lacked the structure to accommodate their political aspirations.
According to him, the reconciliation process with the PDP leadership had been fruitful, and he was thankful that Ortom wholeheartedly approved his return.
Asawa assured the gathering that he would continue to work closely with the former Governor in building a stronger and more united party in Benue State, promising to champion issues that affect the Utange community.
