Former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom cancels his 64th birthday celebration to sympathize with victims of ongoing attacks and killings in the state, opting for solidarity and prayers

Former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom has announced the cancellation of his 64th birthday celebration in response to the persistent attacks, killings, and displacement of thousands of innocent people in the state.

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The announcement was made in a statement released by Mr. Terver Akase, Ortom’s media aide, on Wednesday in Makurdi. According to the statement, Ortom decided to cancel the celebration to express his deep sympathy and solidarity with the victims of the ongoing violence in Benue State.

Ortom expressed his sincere appreciation for the numerous goodwill messages and prayers he has received from the people of Benue and other Nigerians on his 64th birthday. However, he deemed it inappropriate to proceed with the celebration given the current circumstances.

“In light of the ongoing intensified invasion, attacks, and senseless killing of innocent Benue people by herdsmen across various local government areas, Chief Ortom has decided not to hold any celebration,” Akase stated.

“Instead, he has chosen to use the occasion to demonstrate solidarity with the victims and their families, who have suffered grievously from the attacks.”

Instead, he has chosen to use the occasion to demonstrate solidarity with the victims and their families, who have suffered grievously from the attacks,” said Mr. Terver Akase, media aide to Ortom.

The former governor extended his deepest condolences to all affected families and urged the people of Benue to continue praying fervently for the victims.

He also called on everyone to seek divine intervention to bring an end to the carnage and restore peace and security to the state, as well as other parts of the country.

Akase further quoted Ortom as urging the people to pray for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Hyacinth Alia, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, praying that God grants them wisdom, strength, and divine guidance to address and overcome the security challenges facing the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Ortom expressed his profound gratitude to God Almighty for His mercy, good health, and blessings over the past 64 years. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity in the years to come.