BREAKING: Benue Political Tension Heats Up as Ortom, Governor Alia Lock Horns After Release of Probe Report
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According to report by Nigerian Tribune on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, former Benue State governor Samuel Ortom and the current governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Tuesday clashed publicly over the state of governance following the release of a probe panel report that indicted the previous administration.
The report allegedly accused Ortom’s eight-year tenure of mismanaging about N139.8 billion.
The findings sparked strong reactions from both sides, further intensifying political tensions in the state.
Speaking at his residence in Makurdi, Ortom rejected the report, insisting it was politically motivated and unfair.
He argued that he would begin exposing alleged shortcomings within the current administration, accusing it of hypocrisy and financial mismanagement.
According to him, he had stayed silent for years despite continuous accusations, but felt that remaining quiet could be wrongly interpreted as acceptance.
He also challenged Governor Alia to a public debate so both leaders could compare their records based on available resources and governance outcomes.
Ortom also revisited his past remarks concerning former governor and current Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
He admitted regretting his earlier claim after his 2019 re-election that he had politically sidelined Akume.
He said he had since reconciled with him, describing Akume as an important political leader and stressing the need for unity in advancing Benue State’s development.
In response, the Alia administration dismissed Ortom’s allegations, stating the probe was necessary to uncover financial gaps inherited from the previous government.
The governor’s spokesperson argued that Ortom had also set up inquiries into his predecessor, questioning why he now opposed similar scrutiny.
The government further accused the past administration of leaving heavy debts and garnishee orders affecting state finances.
The dispute underscores a growing political rift between both leaders over governance and accountability in Benue State.
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