Having worked closely with Governor Samuel Ortom for some years now, I have come to the conclusion that he is a man of uncommon integrity and valour. He is a man with enormous strength of mind and impeccable character.
Governor Ortom is a great man. He is a leader who is full of compassion. He does not consider himself as boss who sits at the top dishing orders to his subordinates. He likes to work with those around him. When he gives you an assignment and something goes wrong which is your fault, he won’t disgrace you publicly over the mistake. He calls you privately to correct you. Another notable thing about Governor Ortom is that he is a firm believer in the power of God. He often quotes the Bible book of John 3:27 which says a man can receive nothing, except it is given to him from above. Governor Ortom also believes in superior argument. When a matter is up for deliberation, the Governor would allow everyone around the table to make their view known on the issue. When anyone puts forward a compelling argument, he accepts such a position irrespective of the status and position of the person with the superior view. Governor Ortom supports those under him to grow. He often uses the saying ‘live and let live’. He is a man who loves the truth, justice and equity.
God knew why he brought Ortom to be Benue’s Governor at this time. Not all leaders have the courage to look oppression and injustice right in the face and spit into it like Governor Ortom has done.
Ortom is a man who does not mince words or pretend about what he believes to be the right thing. He fears God but not man. He only respects those who earn his respect. Where other men of his ilk would have jerked in fear, he stands firmly and resolute and shows the inner strength of a man of purpose and conviction who would do everything in his power to give his people direction.
Governor Ortom has etched his name in history as a leader worthy of emulation. Here is one leader who accepted the historical responsibility of being the voice of the people who are the custodians of the mandate of office. He has constantly spoken truth to power and tasked the federal government to act decisively to tackle insecurity.
One unique quality of Governor Ortom is his ability and foresight in predicting events. Ortom has been a blend and brand of courage, steadfastness, justice, truth and forthrightness. Even when he couldn’t pay salaries as a result of the recession Nigeria plunged into, he explained to his people that the circumstances were beyond his administration.
Samuel Ortom has challenged the principalities and powers which have taken his people hostage and suppressed the development of the state for decades. Such powers and principalities want Benue State to remain as their annex perpetually. They want Benue to be their farm yard where food is produced to feed their children and cattle. They want to take Benue land for keeps. They don’t expect anyone from the state to have the courage to question them. Now, there has arisen a brave man who has not only questioned the principalities but also called their bluff.
Ortom is aware that he has marched on the tail of the tiger, but he is determined to tame the beast which, for years, has attacked his people and prevented them from accessing their homes and farmlands.
On this day of his 62nd birthday, I, on behalf of my family, wish His Excellency, Governor Samuel Ortom a joyful celebration and many more years.