Ex-Gov Ortom warns Benue traditional rulers against partisan politics, urges collective action amid rising security threats

By Benedicta Aboh

Former Benue State Governor, Chief Samuel Ortom, has charged leaders and residents of Ichongo Akem to prioritize unity and development, stressing that the community must reclaim its historic leadership role among the Tiv people.

Ortom, speaking at the inauguration of the executive members of the newly registered Ichongo Akem Peoples Assembly in Makurdi, described the gathering as a turning point for the community.

He paid glowing tributes to the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo and other prominent sons of Ichongo who devoted their lives to advancing the people’s interests.

“The late Unongo fought tirelessly for unity and progress. Today, we must continue his vision and ensure that Ichongo Akem leads the way in Tiv affairs,” Ortom said.

The former governor, now regarded as the Leader of Ichongo Akem following Unongo’s demise, lamented that Ichongo has not been occupying its rightful position in Tiv politics and society. “As the eldest son of the Tiv, Ichongo Akem should be setting the pace in leadership, development, and peace-building,” he added.

Ortom also urged traditional rulers to rise above partisan politics and serve as fathers to all sons and daughters of Ichongo, warning that political favoritism could weaken the community’s unity and undermine progress.

Highlighting security concerns, he noted with alarm that Ichongo communities have been disproportionately affected by attacks from armed Fulani herdsmen, a development he called “deeply unfortunate.”

Earlier in the ceremony, Elder Azer Ukende, representing the Central Planning Committee, emphasized that the Assembly is apolitical and exists solely to unite Ichongo sons and daughters and drive collective development.

In separate remarks, retired Justice Augustine Utsaha, Professor Steve Ugba, and Charles Torbunde echoed the warning against politicizing the association, stressing that neutrality is key to its mission.

Tor Lobi, HRH Moses Anagende, also called on all Ichongo and Tiv people to set aside differences and work together for the welfare of the Tiv nation.

Dr. Didymus Tamen, President of the Ate-U-Ichongo Akem Peoples Assembly, pledged to lead with fairness, accountability, and the collective interest of the people, promising a new era of cohesion and development for the community.

The event culminated with the official inauguration of the executive members and the unveiling of the association’s certificate of registration, marking a milestone in the quest for unity and progress in Ichongo Akem.