Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has strongly reiterated his unwavering support for a southern presidential candidate in the upcoming 2027 general elections, emphasizing that only a southern presidency can ensure true equity, fairness, and the preservation of national unity.
During his first official media chat since leaving office in 2023, Ortom addressed a gathering of journalists in Makurdi on Thursday, where he reaffirmed his commitment to the principle of power rotation between the North and South. He described this principle as an "unwritten constitution" that has been instrumental in maintaining balance and mutual trust among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
“There is an unwritten constitution in this country that the North should rule for eight years and the South for eight years. Anything that is not a southern presidency, I’m not in. It is wrong; we must work together as a people for our unity and diversity,” Ortom firmly declared during the chat.
Ortom further revealed that his firm belief in fairness and regional equity greatly influenced his decision to step down from his senatorial ambition in the 2023 elections. He stressed that this sacrifice was made in the best interest of national cohesion and stability, rather than personal political advancement, and he expressed no regret over the decision.
Highlighting his dedication to credible leadership, Ortom stated that while he is open to supporting a competent candidate who demonstrates the ability to perform exceptionally well, even if such a candidate emerges from his party, his primary preference will always remain a candidate from the southern region.
“If we have a credible candidate who we believe has the capacity to perform more than the sitting president in our party in 2027, we will support the candidate. But if we don’t have one, we will support any good candidate in 2027 that is from the South,” he explained further.
In a clear and pointed dismissal of the ongoing coalition efforts by political forces under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ortom made it explicitly clear that he has no interest or involvement in such movements. He stressed that he does not believe in coalitions at the moment and views them as unnecessary distractions from the core values and strategies of his party.
“I am not interested in the ADC coalition,” Ortom stated categorically, putting to rest any speculations regarding his possible alignment with opposition coalitions ahead of 2027.
He went on to reaffirm his steadfast loyalty to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), describing himself as a dedicated and lifelong member. Ortom noted that he remains the party’s leader in Benue State and also serves as a respected member of its Board of Trustees (BOT) at the national level, further emphasizing his deep-rooted commitment to the party’s ideals.
“Politics is a game of interest. There are no permanent enemies, only permanent interests. What you are seeing is a normal thing in politics; nothing new,” Ortom stated, reflecting on the shifting alliances and dynamics commonly seen in the Nigerian political landscape.
He, however, acknowledged that strategic partnerships may be necessary at times, provided they align with the collective interest and aspirations of the people. “But where we need to do a partnership, a strategic partnership, yes, when we know that it would be for the interest of our people, we will do it,” he added.
Concluding his remarks, Ortom doubled down on his rejection of any coalition arrangements at this time, reiterating, “I don’t believe in coalition. There is nothing like a coalition at the moment. We are not doing a coalition with anybody,” thus cementing his position and signaling his readiness to continue championing the cause for a southern presidency in 2027.