SAMUEL ORTOM ANSWERS TO EFCC OVER ALLEGED MISAPPROPRIATION OF PUBLIC FUNDS
“Former governor Ortom is currently at our Makurdi zonal office in Benue State. He arrived at about 10 a.m. this morning, and he’s still there now. He was invited over an ongoing investigation concerning alleged misappropriation of funds during his time in office,”
Samuel Ortom, the former Governor of Benue state, was grilled today by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over his involvement in the misappropriation of public funds. As a former high-ranking state official, Ortom arrived at the EFCC’s Makurdi zonal office with his media aide, Terver Akase, and Special Assistant on Special Duties, Abraham Kwanhgu, to address the allegations.
- Ortom ‘calm’ during investigation
- High-level corruption charges
- Allegations against Ortom
Despite the weight of the accusations against him, Ortom strutted confidently into the interrogation. According to sources involved in the case, Ortom was “calm” and seemed self-assured. He arrived at the facility early in the day and at the time of filing this report, had not left the premises, indicating that his interview was ongoing.
There are concerns that Ortom’s misappropriation of public funds may be tied to broader acts of political corruption. As the former governor of a state with a largely agrarian economy, Ortom is accused of lining his pockets with money that should have been used to improve living standards.
The EFCC has previously taken a hard line against high-level corruption, pursuing successful cases against prominent politicians and public officials.
The allegations against Ortom are serious and will merit close examination. If he is found guilty of stealing from the public purse, it could mark a dramatic downfall for a former governor who until recently was considered a significant political figure.
Ortom’s case will be followed closely by journalists and the public, all of whom will be keen to see how the allegations play out.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released at a future juncture.
