Ortom, Alia Trade Words Over Benue’s ₦100bn Loan!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

A heated exchange has erupted between Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and his predecessor, Samuel Ortom, over the recent approval of a ₦100 billion loan by the State House of Assembly.

What Triggered the Clash:

• Governor Alia defended the loan, stating it is crucial for infrastructure renewal and settling inherited debts.
• Ortom, however, questioned the transparency and urgency of the loan, accusing Alia of mortgaging the state’s future without due consultation.
• In response, Alia’s media team accused Ortom of hypocrisy, claiming he left behind a mountain of unpaid liabilities and is in no position to criticize fiscal decisions.

Key Points:

• The loan will reportedly fund road construction, health infrastructure, and education projects.
• Critics, including Ortom loyalists, argue that the size of the loan raises debt sustainability concerns.
• Alia insists the funds will be prudently managed and monitored for impact.

Why It Matters:

• The back-and-forth reflects deeper political tensions between the current and past administrations.
• It raises questions about state borrowing, debt transparency, and the accountability of elected officials. Citations:

1. Daily Trust – www.dailytrust.com.ng
2. The Nation – www.thenationonlineng.net
3. Vanguard Nigeria – www.vanguardngr.com

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