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Senate Minority Leader and Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Comrade Abba Patrick Moro, has commended former Benue State Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, describing him as a leader who gave his absolute best to the state and governed with remarkable inclusivity and consultation.
In remarks delivered on his behalf during a solidarity visit by Ortom’s former aides in Makurdi on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Moro highlighted Ortom’s consultative style of leadership, noting that the former governor rarely made unilateral decisions. Instead, he said Ortom engaged widely—even consulting market women—before arriving at major choices, a quality Moro said explains why the ex-governor remains widely loved across the state.
“Ortom did his best as governor. He is a unique leader who does not take unilateral decisions. He consults widely, even with market women. That is why he is loved by many,” Moro was quoted as saying.
The visit, which Moro could not attend in person due to an official assignment outside the country, was represented by Rt. Hon. Solomon Onah, a former General Manager of the Benue State Environmental Sanitation Authority. According to Onah, the gathering brought together a broad cross-section of individuals who served under Ortom’s administration from 2015 to 2023. This included former commissioners, special advisers, heads of agencies and boards, local government chairmen, and other political appointees.
The delegation’s visit was framed as a gesture of deep appreciation and gratitude for Ortom’s leadership during his eight-year tenure. Moro drew a biblical parallel, likening the former aides’ return to thank their former principal to the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, only one of whom returned to give thanks. He stressed that the visit symbolized genuine recognition of Ortom’s impact and service.
Moro further urged the former governor to maintain close ties with the people and to continue offering leadership and guidance even after leaving office, emphasizing that Ortom’s influence and wisdom remain valuable assets to Benue State.
The event in Makurdi has been seen by many as a reaffirmation of loyalty and respect for Ortom’s legacy among those who worked closely with him. It also underscores the enduring political and personal bonds formed during his time as governor, amid ongoing discussions about leadership styles and legacies in Benue politics.
