Immediate past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has spoken out against what he believes to be a deliberate campaign of lies orchestrated by his opponents in the lead-up to the 2023 general elections. According to Ortom, his detractors spread falsehoods about his involvement with the Ethanol Company, Pure Bio Tech, located along the Gboko-Makurdi Road.
In a statement released by his media aide, Terver Akase, Ortom clarified that he has no ownership stake in the company and is not affiliated with it in any way. He attributed the false claims to individuals seeking to undermine his reputation and seize power in the state.
Ortom highlighted the case of Stephen Numbeve, who previously served as the Resource Manager of Pure Bio Tech before being appointed as the State Project Coordinator by Governor Hyacinth Alia. Numbeve remained silent during the anti-Ortom campaign but later revealed the true owner of the company through social media posts.
The former governor also mentioned instances where his administration took action to address environmental concerns related to Pure Bio Tech, including investigating the company’s sewage disposal practices that were polluting the River Benue.
Ortom challenged those spreading rumors about his ownership of Pure Bio Tech to provide evidence or issue apologies for their false claims. Despite facing setbacks in both his senatorial and gubernatorial ambitions in the 2023 elections, Ortom remains steadfast in defending his integrity against malicious attacks.
It is clear that Ortom is determined to set the record straight and hold his accusers accountable for their deceitful tactics. The truth behind the allegations will ultimately determine the impact on Ortom’s political future and reputation.