A fresh war of words has erupted between former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom and his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia, following allegations of financial mismanagement levelled against the previous administration.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday, Ortom dismissed accusations contained in a recent probe report that claimed his administration could not account for N139.8 billion during its eight years in office.
The former governor accused the current administration of engaging in political persecution and vowed to begin exposing what he described as irregularities, poor governance practices and alleged misuse of state resources under Governor Alia.
According to Ortom, he had remained silent for nearly three years despite repeated allegations against him but could no longer allow what he termed false narratives to go unchallenged.
He also challenged Alia to a public assessment of their respective administrations, suggesting that both leaders compare their achievements against the resources available to them while in office.
Beyond the ongoing dispute, Ortom reflected on his political journey and acknowledged mistakes made during his past disagreements with former Benue governor and current political leader, George Akume.
He expressed regret over an earlier claim that he had politically retired Akume, describing the statement as arrogant and inconsistent with his later realisation that political destinies are ultimately determined by God.
Ortom disclosed that he had since reconciled with Akume and now works closely with him despite their differing political affiliations. He said the partnership was driven by a shared commitment to advancing the interests of Benue State.
The former governor argued that the country’s challenges require leaders to prioritise development and public welfare above partisan considerations.
Responding to Ortom’s remarks, Governor Alia maintained that his administration was simply carrying out its responsibility by examining the records handed over by the previous government.
Through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, the governor rejected suggestions that the probe was politically motivated, insisting that the review process was legitimate and necessary.
Alia noted that Ortom himself established a commission of inquiry to investigate the administration of his predecessor, former Governor Gabriel Suswam, and questioned why he now opposed a similar process.
The governor further alleged that his administration inherited substantial financial liabilities and legal challenges, including multiple garnishee orders running into billions of naira.
According to him, many of the difficulties currently confronting the state stem from decisions taken by the previous administration.
Alia also criticised Ortom’s style of leadership, accusing his government of relying heavily on propaganda and sensational claims rather than effective governance.