Samuel Ortom Congratulates Tor Tiv-Elect

Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue has congratulated the new Tor Tiv-elect, Prof. James Ayatse, over his emergence as the fifth paramount ruler of the Tiv nation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new Tor Tiv pulled a total of 39 votes to beat three other contenders at an election decided by the Tiv Traditional Supreme Council in Gboko.

The Tor Tiv, a professor of Biochemistry, has held the position of Vice Chancellor at two federal universities; Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, and Federal University, Dutsin-ma, Katsina State.

The yet-to-be installed paramount ruler of the Tiv nation was born in 1956 at Shangev-Ya, in Kwande Local Government Area.

Receiving the Tor Tiv-elect at the Benue People’s House on Wednesday in Makurdi, Ortom described him as a man with the fear of God, honesty and integrity.

He commended the transparent manner in which Ayatse emerged as Tor Tiv, adding that it showed the commitment of the Tiv people in upholding the principles of fairness, truth and justice.

He disclosed that the emergence of Ayatse was an act of God.

The governor said the outcome of the election had proven that the government did not interfere with the process as he had earlier promised, saying that he was comfortable with the choice made by the kingmakers.

He restated his resolve to accord the traditional institution its revered status while working with the new Tor Tiv and other traditional rulers to bring development to the people.

Responding, the Tor Tiv-elect thanked God for making him ruler of the Tiv nation and prayed for the wisdom to administer justice in a fair and transparent manner to all his subjects.

He commended the governor for providing a level playing field for the selection of Tor Tiv, adding that he was aware of the problems confronting his people and would depend on the counsel of God in addressing the challenges.