The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has hit back at former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Titus Uba, dismissing his claims of neglect during illness and issuing a sarcastic apology for supporting his political rise.
In a statement signed by State Secretary Comrade Dan Nyikwagh, the PDP described Uba’s recent remarks at an event in Ute, Vandeikya Local Government Area, as “false, ungrateful and deliberately misleading.” The party said it was “sorry for making” Uba, insisting he had been promoted far beyond his “mental and appreciative capacity.”
Reacting to Uba’s allegation that no PDP member checked on him during his illness, the party stressed that he received full support under former Governor Samuel Ortom. The statement revealed that Uba fell ill in 2022, was stabilised in Abuja, and later flown to Germany for specialist treatment costing over N300 million, fully facilitated by the Ortom administration. A reception was also held in his honor upon his return.
The PDP further noted that despite attempts by some party members to replace him as the governorship candidate due to health concerns, Ortom insisted that Uba remain the flagbearer, supporting him “against all odds.” The party also backed his legal battle after the 2023 governorship election, taking his case to the Supreme Court in January 2024.
However, the party accused Uba of abandoning the PDP after the election, citing his absence from meetings, lack of financial contributions, and failure to participate in ward and state congresses in 2024.
“It is shocking and disgusting that Uba now publicly praises Governor Hyacinth Alia for renting an apartment for him in Abuja, while ignoring years of sacrifices and support from Chief Ortom,” the statement said.
The PDP stressed that it is not a charity organisation and questioned how Uba, after eight years as Speaker with full emoluments, had no personal savings and relied on others for basic needs. The party declared that he effectively exited the PDP long ago and described his departure as “good riddance.”
“The most difficult task for the PDP was marketing Titus Uba to Benue people,” the statement added, noting that he reportedly finished fourth in a mock primary election among his kinsmen.
Closing the statement, the PDP offered what it called a sincere apology to Uba “for elevating him beyond his capacity,” expressing hope that he would find it in his heart to forgive the party.
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