The immediate past Governor of Benue State and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom, has assured PDP women of the party’s commitment to defending their interests and protecting their votes in the 2027 general elections.
Chief Ortom gave the assurance on Thursday, 10th September, 2026 while addressing the PDP Women’s Summit 2026 organised by the PDP State Women Leader and Zonal Women Leaders in Benue State.
The former governor thanked the women leaders for organising the summit and urged PDP women across the state to remain strong, united and committed to the party as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.
He charged the women not to be intimidated by anyone, but to confidently return to their various communities and wards to mobilise support and canvass votes for all PDP candidates contesting the 2027 elections.
Chief Ortom stressed the strategic role of women in political mobilisation, urging them to deploy their networks, influence and grassroots structures towards securing victory for the PDP at all levels.
He also called for mutual understanding among PDP candidates and ensure an issue-based campaign ahead of the 2027 polls.
Chief Ortom assured the women that their contributions would be recognised and that they would enjoy greater inclusiveness in leadership when the PDP returns to power.
Earlier, the PDP State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji, represented by his deputy, Hon. Azua Ashongu, commended the women for organising the summit and pledged the party’s continued support and protection for women. He also presented the gubernatorial, NANS and State Assembly candidates to the women and charged them to work hard for victory.
Speaking at the event, the PDP governorship candidate, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, commended the massive turnout of women from the 276 wards across the state, describing it as a clear demonstration of their commitment to the party and readiness to mobilise votes for the PDP in 2027.
Aondoakaa pledged to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership that would positively impact the lives of women if elected governor of the state.
Also speaking, the PDP senatorial candidate for Benue North-West Senatorial District, Dr. Eunice Ortom, described women as an integral part of society, noting that despite their enormous contributions, they had not always received adequate representation in major decision-making processes.
Dr. Eunice Ortom said the impressive turnout had renewed her confidence that women would play a more decisive role in determining the political direction of Benue State, particularly with their renewed commitment to grassroots mobilisation ahead of 2027.
Other speakers, including the State Women Leader, Hon. Mrs. Alice Ene Albelt, and the various Zonal Women Leaders, pledged to return to their respective zones and wards to intensify mobilisation and build stronger support for the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.