From George Okoh In Makurdi
Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Benue State on Monday handed the party structure to the state Governor, Samuel Ortom.
The party also made the governor its leader in the state.
State Chairman of PDP, Sir John Ngbede, announced the decision of the leaders at an expanded caucus meeting held at the new Banquet Hall of the Benue Peoples House, Makurdi.
Mr Ngbede stated that with the development, the party had been fused into one indivisible entity without factions.
He announced the constitution of an integration committee which he said would ensure the unification of all members both old and new with him as chairman and David Tsevende as secretary.
Other members of the committee, which cuts across the three senatorial districts of the state, are Professor Jacob Omenka, Engr. Solomon Agidani, Mr. Oklo Eneje, Jerry Iorhide, Rt. Hon. Mzenda Iho, Mr. Solomon Kachina, Godwin Donko and Timothy Iorchor.
Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, while speaking at the occasion, said the leaders had mandated the governor to restructure the party in order to accommodate all interests, particularly those of the members who recently joined the party.
Senator Mark said it was also resolved that leaders and members of PDP must work in unity so as to win the forthcoming elections.
Former Governor Gabriel Suswam announced that certain party positions, including the party secretary, had been allocated to the governor to accommodate his interest.
Governor Ortom expressed appreciation to the leaders and the state executive committee of PDP for having confidence in him, promising not to disappoint them.
He solicited support and assured the party that a level playing ground would be provided for all aspirants.
