The Coalition of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Youths in Benue State has publicly expressed unwavering support for the former Governor and leader of the party in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom. The group, in a statement released on Thursday, passed a vote of confidence on Ortom, commending his leadership and condemning recent attempts to undermine his authority within the party.
The statement, signed by the coalition’s president, Prince Aondona Isaka, along with other key members, which includes; Austine Adanwo, Christabel Saawuan, Anongo Orseer, David Mzer, Blessing Abah, Prince Livinus Tyodoo, Dan Mashin, ude Akase, Michael Yangehemen affirmed their alignment with Ortom’s leadership. They denounced a recent suspension notice issued against Ortom, describing it as a baseless and malicious attempt orchestrated by certain party members, notably the suspended State Secretary, Dr. Joseph Nyam.
“We have gathered as concerned PDP youths in Benue State to reaffirm our confidence in the leadership of Chief Samuel Ortom. The purported suspension notice is nothing but a scripted effort by unscrupulous individuals to create division within the party. We want to categorically state that Chief Ortom remains the leader of the PDP in Benue State,” the statement read.
The coalition highlighted several key points to refute the claims made by Dr. Nyam, emphasizing that his suspension from his position was carried out in accordance with the PDP’s constitution, and therefore, any actions taken by him post-suspension are null and void.
Furthermore, the youth group expressed their dissatisfaction with Senator Gabriel Suswam, accusing him of engaging in anti-party activities. They cited his public endorsement of Governor Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a burial ceremony in 2023, while the PDP was still challenging Alia’s election victory in court. The coalition condemned this as the “height of anti-party conduct” and called for the PDP disciplinary committee to take appropriate action against Suswam.
“Senator Suswam’s conduct has been detrimental to the party’s interests. His endorsement of an opposition governor and his alleged misuse of campaign funds are serious issues that must not be overlooked,” the statement added.
The coalition also commended Chief Ortom for his resilience and commitment to the PDP despite facing multiple challenges, including what they described as “betrayal” by certain party stakeholders. They praised Ortom’s maturity and forgiving spirit, urging him to remain focused and not be distracted by the divisive tactics of those attempting to destabilize the party.
“We call on the public to disregard the false news of Chief Ortom’s suspension. The procedures for suspending a party member are clear and cannot be altered to suit the whims of a few individuals,” the statement concluded.
The coalition’s firm stance comes amid ongoing internal disputes within the Benue State chapter of the PDP, with various factions vying for control and influence ahead of future elections.
