By Our Correspondent
National News – Former Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom, has dismissed claims that he plans to contest the Benue North-West senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, describing the reports circulating on social media as false and misleading.
The clarification came on Saturday after rumours widely shared across Benue State suggested the former governor was preparing for another attempt at the Senate seat he previously contested in 2023.
Ortom, who governed Benue State from 2015 to 2023, had earlier contested the Benue North-West senatorial seat during the 2023 elections but lost to Senator Titus Zam, a former aide.
The speculation about a possible 2027 comeback sparked reactions among political observers and supporters across the state.
Responding to the rumours, Ortom’s media aide, Terver Akase, issued a statement firmly rejecting the claims.
According to him, the former governor has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of seeking elective office again.
Akase explained that the report suggesting Ortom’s return to the ballot was fabricated and misrepresented the former governor’s political position.
He emphasised that Ortom has consistently maintained his decision not to contest any political office in the forthcoming election cycle.
The statement noted that Ortom remains committed to supporting democratic values and strengthening his political party through advisory and leadership roles rather than pursuing electoral positions.
“Chief Ortom has no intention whatsoever to contest any elective office in 2027. He has said this clearly, publicly and repeatedly,” the statement read.
It further stressed that the former governor intends to focus on providing statesmanlike guidance and contributing to the development of democratic institutions instead of seeking another mandate from voters.
Ortom also acknowledged the calls and messages he received from supporters, party members and associates who expressed concern about the circulating reports.
He reassured them that the information about his supposed senatorial ambition was untrue.
Political analysts say the rumours likely gained traction due to Ortom’s continued influence in Benue politics and his strong base in the Benue North-West district.
However, with the latest clarification, the former governor has reiterated that his role in the political landscape will remain that of a party supporter and adviser rather than a candidate in the 2027 elections.
