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Muna Tengi
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Samuel Ortom: Biography, Net Worth, Family, Business, And Political Career
Introduction
Samuel Ioraer Ortom is a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman, and philanthropist who has played a significant role in the political landscape of Benue State. Serving as the Governor of Benue State from 2015 to 2023, Ortom’s career spans various sectors, from business to politics and public service. Known for his passionate stance on protecting the rights of farmers and tackling insecurity, especially concerning herder-farmer clashes in Benue, Ortom has been a figure of both admiration and controversy. In this blog post, we will explore his biography, net worth, family life, business ventures, and political career.
Early Life and Education
Samuel Ortom was born on April 23, 1961, in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. He was born into a humble family, which profoundly influenced his life and worldview. His early years were marked by significant challenges, especially regarding education. Ortom’s schooling was disrupted several times due to financial difficulties, and he even had to drop out of school at various points. However, his perseverance and determination pushed him to continue seeking knowledge in alternative ways.
Ortom eventually completed his secondary education through the General Certificate of Education (GCE) and obtained further qualifications later in life. He earned a Diploma in Salesmanship and a Diploma in Journalism, which helped him in his business ventures and political communication. Ortom also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Benue State University, Makurdi.
Family Life
Samuel Ortom is married to Eunice Erdoo Ortom, a strong pillar of support in his political and personal life. The couple is blessed with six children. Mrs. Eunice Ortom is a respected advocate for women’s rights and child welfare, often engaging in philanthropic activities that align with her husband’s governance agenda. The Ortom family is known for their deep Christian faith, with the governor frequently expressing his belief in divine intervention and guidance throughout his career.
Business Ventures
Before venturing into politics, Samuel Ortom was heavily involved in various business activities. His early career saw him working as a salesman in various capacities, including working for a company where he honed his skills in marketing and salesmanship.
Ortom’s business acumen led him to establish his company, Oracle Business Limited, which was involved in printing, advertising, and the supply of industrial materials. He also ventured into agriculture, focusing on farming and agribusiness, which aligns with the agrarian nature of Benue State, famously known as the "Food Basket of the Nation." His deep connection with the farming community has had a lasting impact on his political stance, particularly in addressing the herder-farmer crises that plagued Benue during his tenure as governor.
Ortom’s business success, particularly in agriculture, not only provided him with financial stability but also helped him build a strong network of influence among farmers and business owners in Benue and beyond.
Political Career
Samuel Ortom’s political journey began long before he became the governor of Benue State. His political career can be traced back to the 1980s when he served as the chairman of Guma Local Government. His initial entry into politics was influenced by his desire to make a difference in the lives of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those in rural areas like his hometown.
Minister of State for Trade and Investment
One of Ortom’s most significant early political appointments was as the Minister of State for Trade and Investment under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. During his tenure, Ortom worked on policies aimed at enhancing Nigeria's business environment, promoting local industries, and fostering trade relationships that would benefit the economy.
Governor of Benue State
In 2015, Samuel Ortom ran for the governorship of Benue State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He won the election and was inaugurated as the Governor of Benue State on May 29, 2015. His first term as governor was marked by several challenges, most notably the persistent clashes between herders and farmers in the state. These clashes led to the loss of lives and destruction of property, drawing national and international attention.
To address this crisis, Ortom enacted the Anti-Open Grazing Law in 2017, which prohibited open grazing of livestock in Benue State. The law was designed to protect farmers and reduce tensions between herders and farming communities. While the law was praised by many in Benue and other states, it also sparked controversy, particularly from groups representing herders, who argued that it infringed on their way of life.
Despite the challenges, Ortom’s firm stance on the herder-farmer crisis won him support among the farming communities in Benue, who saw him as a protector of their rights and livelihoods.
Switch to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)
In 2018, Ortom made a significant political move by switching from the APC to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), citing internal party issues and dissatisfaction with the handling of the herder-farmer crisis by the federal government. He successfully ran for a second term under the PDP platform in the 2019 gubernatorial elections and was re-elected.
Ortom’s second term was characterized by his continued focus on security, education, and infrastructure development in Benue State. He also remained vocal on national issues, often criticizing the federal government’s handling of security challenges in the country.
Challenges and Criticism
While Ortom’s governance earned him significant praise, he also faced criticism on several fronts. Critics accused him of not doing enough to address the economic challenges facing the state, including unpaid salaries and pensions for civil servants and retirees. There were also allegations of corruption and mismanagement of state funds, though Ortom has repeatedly denied these accusations.
Net Worth
Samuel Ortom’s net worth is a subject of speculation, as is common with many Nigerian politicians. His wealth is believed to come from his various business ventures, particularly in agriculture and printing, as well as from his earnings as a government official. While exact figures are not readily available, some sources estimate Ortom’s net worth to be around ₦5 billion to ₦10 billion.
It is important to note that much of Ortom’s wealth is reportedly tied to his businesses and real estate holdings, particularly in Benue State. His involvement in agriculture and other industries has helped him maintain a comfortable financial position even outside of his political career.
Legacy and Impact
Samuel Ortom’s legacy as governor of Benue State will largely be remembered for his efforts to address the herder-farmer conflict and his commitment to protecting the agrarian communities in the state. His introduction of the Anti-Open Grazing Law marked a significant shift in how state governments could address the complex issue of land use and resource competition between farmers and herders.
Ortom’s political career is also notable for his ability to navigate the often-turbulent waters of Nigerian politics, switching from the APC to the PDP and managing to retain the support of his constituents. His leadership during times of crisis, such as the insecurity in Benue State, demonstrated his resolve to protect the people, even if it meant taking unpopular positions.
Conclusion
Samuel Ortom is a figure who has significantly impacted the political and social fabric of Benue State. His journey from a humble background to becoming the governor of one of Nigeria’s key agricultural states is a testament to his resilience and determination. Whether loved or criticized, Ortom’s role in shaping the political discourse on security, agriculture, and governance in Benue State will remain a significant part of his legacy. His business success, political acumen, and dedication to public service have positioned him as a key figure in Nigerian politics.
