Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has claimed that “corruption resides in the (Presidential) Villa”.
He said this during an appearance on Arise TV, accusing the presidency of orchestrating his loss in the senatorial election during the recent general election.
According to him, the presidency wanted him out by all means because they believed he was in their way.
However, he said he has moved on from the loss and forgiven those behind it.
“The celebration of my defeat which was orchestrated by the (Presidential) Villa showed they wanted me out at all cost. Monies were spent to stop me.
“People talk of corruption but corruption is in the Villa itself. I know how much was spent by the Villa on Benue to ensure that I lose electron.
“Yes I lost. Fine and good, God permitted it and I have accepted it. I have accepted to move on.
“They thought I was on their way but I wasn’t on their way. All I did was to ensure justice and equity for all,” Ortom said.
He expressed his displeasure with President Muhammadu Buhari’s alleged intention to relocate to Niger Republic if made uncomfortable in Nigeria after leaving office.
Ortom said it was important that Buhari stayed in Nigeria to enjoy the country he has helped to create with his maladministration.
“Buhari should not relocate to Niger Republic after leaving office. He should stay here with us.
“He has taken us from top to bottom. So, let him go no where. Let’s all stay here and work for the incoming administration, and by God’s grace move from bottom to top again,” the Benue governor said.
He recalled that under the Goodluck Jonathan administration, Nigeria made appreciable progress in different sectors of the economy.
Ortom, who served as Minister for Culture and Tourism under Jonathan, said, “I remember when some of us had the privilege of serving under President Goodluck Jonathan. we were talking Nigeria from bottom to top to a certain level, but now (under Buhari) we are at the bottom.”
Asked what he would do after leaving office on May 29, Ortom said he would either return to his farming career or become a freelance journalist.