Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has said that sponsored media attacks on his personality and government will not deter him from advocating for justice, equity and fairness for all Nigerians.
The Governor made the remark on Thursday while addressing journalists at the Makurdi Airport on his return from a private visit to his Akwa Ibom State counterpart, Emmanuel Udom.
He observed the attacks were being sponsored by persons who want to see the continuation of impunity and injustice in the country and have vowed to descend on anyone who dares to speak against the evil.
Governor Ortom noted that separationist and secessionist agitations by Nigerians were fuelled by the marginalization of parts of the country in key decisions and lopsided appointments among other perceived forms of impunity anchored by the presidency.
He pointed out that as one who was popularly elected and reelected by the Benue people, he would continue to speak out even when others keep quiet.
Fielding questions from journalists, the Governor said people were free to defect to any political party of their choice and at any time.
He however observed that when such defections are meant to shield one from prosecution, it becomes questionable.
While reacting to a question about his plan after 2023, Governor Ortom said he would love to go back to his farm which he started in 2000, adding, however, that God in whom he trusts would decide his fate when the time comes.
The Governor who also spoke on the recently reconstituted and inaugurated Benue State Council on Privatisation, Commercialisation of Enterprises, said the State Government would go ahead with the exercise to rejuvenate moribund industries in the state.
