Former Nigerian Ambassador to Namibia, Dr Terhemen Tarzoor, has criticised former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom over reported remarks directed at his successor, Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Tarzoor expressed concern over the tone of the political exchange, urging public office holders to address disagreements without resorting to personal insults.
Speaking to journalists in Makurdi on Thursday, the former diplomat reacted to reports that Ortom had described Alia in derogatory terms while questioning the current administration’s performance.
Tarzoor Faults Reported Remarks Against Alia
The former ambassador said political criticism should focus on government policies, achievements and shortcomings rather than personal attacks.
His comments followed reports that Ortom had questioned the Alia administration’s claims about efforts to revive previously inactive industries in Benue State.
Ortom was also reported to have used insulting expressions while discussing the governor.
Tarzoor said such language was inappropriate for a former governor who had occupied one of the state’s highest political offices.
He maintained that political leaders should recognise the influence of their public statements and avoid language capable of deepening divisions among residents.
According to him, disagreements over governance are legitimate, but they should be expressed in a manner that promotes accountability and constructive public debate.
Former Ambassador Defends Catholic Church’s Accountability
Tarzoor also responded to reported comments concerning the Catholic Church.
The former speaker, who identified himself as a member of the Knights of St John International, said the church operated administrative structures designed to promote accountability.
He pointed to councils and other internal bodies that participate in decision-making and oversight within Catholic institutions.
According to him, these arrangements are intended to ensure that financial and administrative responsibilities are not left entirely to individual priests.
Tarzoor argued that criticism of religious institutions should take account of their established governance procedures.
His comments represented a defence of the church’s internal arrangements rather than an independent assessment of every Catholic institution’s financial practices.
Tarzoor Urges Fair Comparison of Ortom, Alia Administrations
The former ambassador also addressed comparisons between the achievements of Ortom’s government and those of the current administration.
He said any assessment should consider how long each governor had been in office.
Ortom served two terms as Benue governor, spending eight years in office between 2015 and 2023.
Alia assumed office in May 2023 and has served for a shorter period.
Tarzoor maintained that comparisons should be based on clear performance indicators, available resources and the time each administration had to implement its programmes.
He said meaningful political debate required more than broad claims about which administration had performed better.
Ex-Speaker Comments on Alleged Former Governors’ Benefits
Tarzoor also responded to reports suggesting that Ortom was dissatisfied over the alleged withholding of certain benefits for former governors.
He said he was not aware of legislation establishing such entitlements during his time as speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly.
The former ambassador acknowledged that legislation might have been introduced after his tenure and declined to make a definitive statement about any law he had not examined.
He nevertheless encouraged former public office holders to consider supporting charitable activities and community development initiatives.
According to him, people who have held influential positions should remain mindful of the economic difficulties experienced by ordinary residents.
Tarzoor Speaks on APC Disagreements Ahead of 2027
Turning to political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections, Tarzoor expressed the view that disagreements among members of the All Progressives Congress could still be addressed through dialogue.
He said political negotiations were a continuing process and that differences among stakeholders did not necessarily mean lasting divisions.
The former ambassador expressed confidence in the ability of party leaders to pursue discussions aimed at resolving internal disagreements.
Tarzoor currently serves as the Benue State coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a group associated with support for President Bola Tinubu’s political agenda.
His comments on party reconciliation therefore came from a participant in the state’s political landscape.
Former Envoy Defends Petrol Subsidy Removal
Tarzoor also expressed support for the Federal Government’s decision to remove the petrol subsidy.
He acknowledged that the policy had created difficulties for Nigerians but argued that its longer-term economic effects should be considered alongside the immediate financial pressure on households.
The former ambassador urged residents to allow time for government reforms and development initiatives to produce results.
His remarks reflected his support for the policy and did not establish that its anticipated benefits had already been realised.
Political Disagreement Continues in Benue
The exchange highlights continuing political differences between figures associated with the former and current administrations in Benue State.
Tarzoor’s intervention focused on the tone of public criticism, comparisons of government performance and the possibility of resolving political disagreements through negotiation.
The former ambassador maintained that public officials and political stakeholders should place greater emphasis on issues affecting residents.
The original remarks attributed to Ortom were not independently reproduced in the interview account. His full response to Tarzoor’s criticism was also not included.
The dispute therefore remains a political exchange involving competing views about leadership, governance and public accountability.
