Ortom Submits Self to EFCC as Agency Quizzes Ex-Governor

•PDP Reacts

George Okoh in Makurdi

A former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, yesterday, submitted himself to the authorities of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at their office in Makurdi and was in turn quizzed by the commission over alleged abuse of office.

The former governor, who drove into the premises of the EFCC in his SUV, located along Godo Aluor Street, Old GRA, Makurdi, arrived around 10am.

He was later joined by two of his former aides – former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Terver Akase and Principal Special Assistant, Abraham Kwaghgu.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State, has commended the former governor for voluntarily submitting himself to the EFCC.

The party’s reaction was contained in a statement by its Publicity Secretary in the state, Mr. Bemgba Iortyom and titled: “Ortom’s voluntary submission for EFCC questioning, worthy of emulation”.

It confirmed that, “Ex-Governor Ortom earlier today went over to the Makurdi office of the EFCC to honour invitation extended to him by the Commission and our great party hails his conduct as exemplary and reflecting clarity of conscience.

“The former governor’s action also depicts him as a man of his words as it fulfills promises he made while in office that at the end of his tenure, he will be willing to give open account of all that he did in execution of the mandate vested on him as governor by the Benue electorate.”

The PDP noted that while this would not be the first time a former governor would be answering questions before the anti-graft body, Ortom’s case was remarkably distinct for the lack of rancour and acrimony, which usually attended such appearances.

The party expressed delight at the ex-governor’s courage to submit himself instead of running away, which signified a clear reflection that there are no skeletons in his cupboard.

“We urge other holders of public offices to emulate the Ortom standard by discharging their duties and responsibilities while in office within the confines of law so they may be able to come to open account when called upon without any fear,” he said.