Former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, has denied rumours of his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress, describing the reports as false, mischievous, and politically motivated.
In a statement on Monday issued by his Media Adviser, Terver Akase, Ortom said the claims were a deliberate fabrication by political opponents unnerved by his continued influence in Benue politics.
“The report is entirely false and misleading. It exists only in the imagination of its promoters,” the statement said.
The former governor alleged that desperate elements went as far as forging an APC membership card with his name and circulating it online in a bid to lend credibility to the claim.
“This act is not only irresponsible but also exposes the depth of desperation among those behind it,” Ortom said.
He described the move as the handiwork of individuals allegedly sponsored by political adversaries who are unsettled by his continued relevance within the Peoples Democratic Party and in Benue at large.
Ortom reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the PDP, declaring that he remains a “proud, committed, and influential member” of the party.
He also reiterated his leadership status within the opposition party in the state and at the national level.
“I remain the leader of the PDP in Benue State and a respected member of the party’s Board of Trustees,” the statement added.