Former Benue State Governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, has officially refuted claims that party leaders intend to swap the 2027 governorship nominee, Chief Michael Aondoakaa, SAN, with Dr. Pius Akutah, who serves as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. Through a statement from his media assistant, Zege Terhide, Ortom labeled these rumors as a misleading interpretation of a recent gathering attended by key Benue stakeholders.
Ortom clarified that he, alongside Senator Abba Moro and Chief Aondoakaa, held discussions with influential figures like Chief Simon Shango, Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher, and Dr. Matthias Byuan. The former governor insisted that these meetings were routine political consultations intended to foster unity rather than secret maneuvers to alter the party’s ticket. He emphasized that Aondoakaa maintains the full support of the party hierarchy and remains the official candidate.
Highlighting Aondoakaa’s professional background as a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Ortom expressed faith in the candidate’s capacity to address issues regarding security and economic development. He urged the public to disregard speculative reports and cautioned against spreading misinformation that aims to create internal discord. The PDP leadership remains committed to forming a broad coalition for the upcoming 2027 election cycle.
