Benue PDP Accuses Governor Alia of Panic and Evasion Over Ortom’s Debate Challenge

The Benue State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described Governor Hyacinth Alia’s response to former Governor Samuel Ortom’s public debate challenge as “panic-stricken” and an admission that the governor cannot answer critical questions about his administration’s performance.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, by State Publicity Secretary Bright Yima Antyo, the PDP said it read the statement from Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Kula, with amusement. The party argued that rather than accepting Ortom’s challenge for a public presentation of facts, figures, and records, the governor chose to hide behind press statements.

The PDP maintained that Governor Alia is unwilling to address questions regarding the enormous revenues that have accrued to Benue State under his watch and why the people continue to experience hardship despite these resources. The party rejected the Alia administration’s description of the Ortom years as the “Years of the Locusts,” describing it as dishonest and an insult to the people of Benue.

The statement highlighted achievements recorded under Ortom, including the construction of critical infrastructure during economic recession and national financial crises, as well as courageous defence of ancestral lands against armed invaders. It also noted that despite multiple probes and allegations against Ortom, no court has convicted him of corruption or financial misconduct.

The PDP urged the current administration to focus on accountability, transparency in project costs, procurement processes, and value for money rather than continuous blame on predecessors. The party reaffirmed its commitment to holding the Alia government accountable in the interest of the people of Benue State.