Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom, has disclosed that he would willingly accept outcome of the election only if the will of the people were allowed to take preeminence.
Ortom, who stated this on the eve of the 2019 presidential election in Makurdi, while briefing newsmen on the preparedness of the state to participate in the forthcoming elections, said that he was optimistic that he would win the elections but if he genuinely loses it, he would accept the outcome without any grouse.
Governor Ortom also disclosed that he was aware of the grand plots of the leader of APC in Benue to cause confusion so that the election would be shifted, urging residents to go out, cast their votes to select leaders of their choice.
‘’I have always advised my people against violence before, during and after elections. No need for violence and I want to warn that the era of ballot snatching is over, if you want to win election, work hard for it.”
“Politicians who have lost support of their people because of abysmal performance should come back and allow others to go, by letting the will of the people prevail. People should be allowed to make choices of those that will represent them.”
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The governor encouraged Benue residents to vote according to their consciences, adding that they should vote only credible candidates and not allow anyone use them to sell their consciences.
He expressed confidence in the chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, stressing that he is a credible man and had assured even the international community of the commission’s readiness to conduct free and credible elections.
“I must commend the security agencies for ensuring peace in the state so far, especially Operation Whirl Stroke, adding that the security has assured him that they are well equipped to prevent breakdown of law and order, before, during and after elections.”
He encouraged the people to go about their genuine businesses without any fear, and intimidation, emphasising that they should not be afraid to come out and exercise their civic responsibility today.
He further commended INEC for making all the necessary arrangements in order to have credible elections and as well ensuring that those living with disabilities are part and parcel of the process.
Ortom also applauded security agencies for dealing with criminal elements in the state, emphasising that Operation Whirl Stroke had helped greatly in reducing the incidents of herdsmen attack on the citizens
