God Instructed Me Not to Contest in 2027 — Ortom Reflects on 2023 Election Loss

Former Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom, has revealed that God advised him against participating in any elections in 2027. Ortom made this revelation on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the G-14 members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Makurdi.

The G-14 comprises senior PDP members from the 14 Tiv-speaking local government areas of Benue State.

Ortom expressed that he had no choice but to abide by God’s directive. Reflecting on his defeat in the 2023 elections, he admitted that he failed to seek divine guidance before running, which he believes contributed to his loss.

The former governor reiterated the PDP’s commitment to reclaiming the Benue Government House in the upcoming 2027 elections but confirmed that he would not be a contender.

“I will not be contesting in the 2027 elections. I now understand why I lost in 2023—it was because I didn’t consult God. My people bought the forms for me, and I accepted without seeking God’s counsel,” Ortom stated.

He added that God had since revealed everything to him, advising him to wait for further direction.

Ortom also reflected on his time as governor, sharing that he made significant sacrifices, including distancing himself from family and friends to focus on his duties to the state. Despite stepping down from office, he pledged to continue supporting the PDP and emphasized that personal ambitions should not override the interests of the party.

He concluded by sharing that, after his tenure as governor, he had initially planned to take a sabbatical, but the PDP elders discouraged him from doing so.