Shun Violence, Don’t be used as political thugs, Ortom tells Benue youths

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The immediate past Governor of Benue State and Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom, has urged youths to shun violence and resist attempts by individuals to use them as political thugs.

Chief Ortom gave the advice on Saturday while speaking at the burial of elder statesman and former Chairman of the PDP in Benue State, Hon.

The former governor cautioned that youths should not allow themselves to be manipulated to attack political opponents, insisting that anyone who wants violence carried out against rivals should first present their own children to lead such attacks.

Ortom also condemned the growing disruption of church services and other public gatherings taking place in parts of the state, warning that such actions portend avoidable danger if not checked.

The PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) member also noted that Benue was already overwhelmed and devastated by destruction and killings in communities caused by invading militant herdsmen, warning against compounding the situation with unnecessary political crises as the 2027 elections approach.

He also urged traditional rulers to stay out of politics and uphold their lawful role to serve as neutral royal fathers and custodians of the people’s culture.

Speaking further in his funeral oration, the former governor described the late Aloysius Wuam as a man of remarkable character whose life embodied dedication, loyalty, and a high level of commitment to the ideals of justice, unity, and service to the people.

Reminiscing about his close working relationship with the late Wuam, Ortom said he experienced firsthand his calm disposition and unflinching belief in teamwork and collective progress, noting that the deceased was a stabilizing force in the party.

Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, in his condolence message, described the late Aloysius Wuam as a committed public servant whose contributions to the political development of the state remain remarkable. He called on those aspiring to rule Benue in 2027 to place the interest of the state above selfish ambitions.

The Chairman of PDP in the State, Ezekiel Adaji, said Wuam’s legacy of service, integrity, and political mentorship would continue to inspire members of the party.

Other dignitaries who spoke at the funeral were the Tor Kwande, Chief Ambrose Pine Iortyer, and the member representing Mata State Constituency, Dr. Simon Gabo, as well as the Senator representing Benue North-East Senatorial District, Barr. Emmanuel Udende, who was represented at the event.

Governorship aspirants for the 2027 election from the PDP and APC, including Prof. Dennis Ityavyar, Michael Kaase Aondoakaa (SAN), Dr. Pius Ukeyima Akuta Gbongbon, Rt. Hon. Dominic Ucha, Dr. Mathias Ibyuan, Dr. Joseph Tersoo Loko, Rev Tor Uja, Engr. Nick Wende, Dr. Ochakiti Ogbenjua, and Engr. Peter TorTiv Ato, also delivered condolence messages.

The late Aloysius Wuam, aged 91, died on January 20, 2026.