A former governor of Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom, has admitted that imposing a governorship candidate on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2023 general elections was a major political error that contributed to the party's defeat.
Ortom formally apologised to his former appointees and supporters for backing Engr Titus Uba as the PDP governorship candidate, admitting that the decision was wrong and costly.
He made the remarks on Sunday in Makurdi while addressing former appointees who paid him a solidarity visit at his residence.
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The former governor said the decision was taken without divine guidance and in spite of warning signs that later proved significant.
"I made a mistake by imposing a candidate on all of you. I did not ask God. During the mock primaries, he came fourth, not even third," Ortom said.
He added that several people had cautioned him that the candidate would be difficult to market politically.
The former governor also faulted them for failing to challenge his decision at the time.
"How many of you told me I was making a mistake? Next time, don't be afraid of your leader," he said.
Ortom also revealed that he never intended to contest the 2023 senatorial election, saying the decision was taken without his consent and without divine approval.
He said the experience taught him lasting lessons, including his decision not to challenge the outcome in court.
Looking ahead to 2027, Ortom said he would not contest any election, stressing that leadership should emerge through God's will rather than political imposition.
"I remain in the PDP and I am not going anywhere, but I believe in strategic partnership. Politics is about inclusion and interest, not fighting," he said.
He described the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, as a central figure in Benue politics and urged political actors across party lines to work together for stability in the state.
