…how Ortom’s Proactive Security Policies Faced Federal Roadblocks

…my biggest lessons as Governorship aspirant were importance of grassroots engagement and the need for resilience in the face of challenges

…the need for ethical reporting and professional standards remains crucial to maintaining credibility in journalism.

A chat with Terver Akase, his political and journalism career, how he managed communication at the height of insecurity in Benue State.

“My decision to run for governor was driven by a desire to create impactful change in Benue State. I saw a gap in youth representation and felt compelled to give a voice and participation to my generation”.
“The biggest lessons I learned were the importance of grassroots engagement and the need for resilience in the face of challenges. Politics is not just about winning; it’s about listening to the people and genuinely addressing their needs”.

Akase went ahead to compare his time as the Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to Governor Samuel Ortom, and governance under the present administration in areas of insecurity and economy…

“Governor Alia made a number of promises during the campaigns but so far, he is yet to fulfill them aside the payment of salaries which all other governors are paying now that there is no fuel subsidy and allocations to states have increased by 400%”.
“His government has also neglected a very important aspect of governance – security. A number of people are being killed on a daily basis in Benue State but the Governor and his administration have continued to describe the attacks as mere skirmishes, insisting that there is relative peace in the state”.

“Ortom’s policies on security were proactive, often involving community engagement and collaboration with security agencies. While he made efforts to address the herder-farmer conflicts through dialogue and policy frameworks, challenges such as the disposition of the then federal government headed by President Muhammadu Buhari frustrated his efforts”.

TOSCADNEWS: Who is Terver Akase outside politics and journalism?

Outside of my public roles, I am a passionate advocate for community development and a lifelong learner. I also have passion for sports, particularly football. My values are deeply rooted in integrity, empathy and service. Growing up in Benue State, I was influenced by the resilience of my parents – Pa Pius Akase Ikpor and Mama Margaret Sena Akase, as well as the larger community. I was taught the importance of education. Experiences in my family and local environment have shaped my commitment to uplifting others, particularly the youth, and advocating for positive change.

TOSCADNEWS: What inspired your decision to run for governor, and what were the biggest lessons learned?

My decision to run for governor was driven by a desire to create impactful change in Benue State. I saw a gap in youth representation and felt compelled to give a voice and participation to my generation. The biggest lessons I learned were the importance of grassroots engagement and the need for resilience in the face of challenges. Politics is not just about winning; it’s about listening to the people and genuinely addressing their needs.

TOSCADNEWS: If given another opportunity, would you pursue Governorship again, and what new strategies would you adopt?

I am yet to decide on this matter. Let’s keep it in view.

TOSCADNEWS: What were the most challenging moments as Chief Press Secretary to Governor Samuel Ortom and how did you handle them?

One of the most challenging moments was managing communications during crises, such as security issues in the state. To handle these situations, I prioritized transparency and timely information dissemination. I worked closely with the governor, ensuring that our communication was timely, consistent and empathetic, while also addressing public concerns.

TOSCADNEWS: How did you navigate situations where public perception clashed with government policies?

Navigating these situations required careful communication and a commitment to honesty. I focused on clarifying the rationale behind policies, engaging with the media to provide context and being open to dialogue with the public. Building trust was essential, and I aimed to be a bridge between the government and the people through the media.

TOSCADNEWS: What were your major accomplishments as Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ in Rivers State and impact on journalism?

During my tenure, we improved working conditions for journalists and established training programmes to enhance professional skills. We also advocated for press freedom and the rights of journalists, which strengthened the integrity of journalism in Rivers State. I also encouraged re-training of journalists as we undertook several refresher courses and seminars. These efforts fostered a more robust and accountable media landscape.

TOSCADNEWS: How would you describe the state of journalism in Nigeria today compared to when you were in office?

Journalism in Nigeria has become more dynamic with the rise of digital platforms, but challenges persist, especially regarding press freedom and journalist safety. While there is more access to information, the need for ethical reporting and professional standards remains crucial to maintaining credibility in this evolving landscape.

TOSCADNEWS: What can be done to better protect journalists and uphold media independence?

To protect journalists, there needs for stronger legal frameworks that safeguard press freedom. Additionally, media organizations should invest in training their staff on safety protocols and ethical reporting. Collaborations with civil society and international organizations can also help advocate for journalists’ rights and provide necessary support.

TOSCADNEWS: What is your advice to journalists in the fast-changing media landscape regarding professionalism and ethics?

Journalists should embrace continuous learning, especially in digital literacy. Upholding ethical standards is paramount. Our colleagues should always endeavour to verify information before publication and avoid sensationalism. Building a personal brand based on integrity can also help them stand out in a crowded field such as ours.

TOSCADNEWS: Can you give the key lessons you learned from journalism and government communication, and fostering better relationships?

The key lesson is the importance of transparency and mutual respect. Journalists and government officials should engage in constructive dialogue to understand each other’s roles better. Building trust through regular communication and shared goals can facilitate a healthier relationship without compromising ethical standards.

TOSCADNEWS: What’s next for Terver Akase?

Looking ahead, I am exploring opportunities that combine my passion for service and my background in journalism. While I have not ruled out a return to active journalism or a continued focus on politics, I am also open to new ventures that align with my values and allow me to contribute positively to society.
At the moment, I am a doctoral candidate at the Benue State University, Makurdi.

Terver Akase – “Governor Alia made a number of promises during the campaigns but so far, he is yet to fulfill them aside the payment of salaries which all other governors are paying now that there is no fuel subsidy and allocations to states have increased by 400%”.
“His government has also neglected a very important aspect of governance – security. A number of people are being killed on a daily basis in Benue State but the Governor and his administration have continued to describe the attacks as mere skirmishes, insisting that there is relative peace in the state”.

TOSCADNEWS: Looking back at Samuel Ortom’s tenure as Governor of Benue State, what would you say were his biggest achievements and what legacy in your opinion did he leave behind?

Samuel Ortom’s tenure was marked by significant strides in infrastructure development, healthcare, and education. His administration completed numerous roads and healthcare facilities, enhancing accessibility for the people of Benue State. Governor Ortom also championed agricultural policies aimed at boosting food security, which is crucial for a largely agrarian state like Benue. His legacy includes a strong advocacy for the rights and safety of farmers and a commitment to peacebuilding amid the herder-farmer crisis.

TOSCADNEWS: Ortom’s administration was known for its strong stance on security, particularly regarding the herder-farmer crisis. How effective do you think his policies were and what challenges did the government face in implementing them?

Ortom’s policies on security were proactive, often involving community engagement and collaboration with security agencies. While he made efforts to address the herder-farmer conflicts through dialogue and policy frameworks, challenges such as the disposition of the then federal government headed by President Muhammadu Buhari frustrated his efforts. Governor Ortom will be remembered as a governor who initiated, enacted and enforced a law banning open grazing of livestock while encouraging the establishment of ranches. His approach has today become a model for other states in Nigeria.

TOSCADNEWS: Critics argue that Ortom’s government struggled with salary payments and pensions. What were the major factors that led to these financial challenges and do you think the administration handled them well?

The Ortom administration faced significant financial constraints due to dwindling federal allocations, economic downturns and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. While the government made efforts to prioritize salary payments, the economic realities strained resources. Ortom’s administration sought alternative revenue sources, but the situation was challenging. Overall, the handling of these issues reflected both the efforts made and the constraints faced.

TOSCADNEWS: There were allegations of mismanagement and corruption leveled against the past administration. What’s your response to these claims and how do you defend Ortom’s record in office?

Ortom’s administration was committed to transparency and accountability, implementing measures such as the establishment of a public procurement agency. While no administration is entirely without criticism, Ortom maintained that his record was one of service and dedication to the people of Benue State.

TOSCADNEWS: As someone who closely worked with the former governor, what were some of the toughest moments of his administration and how did he navigate them?

Some of the toughest moments included managing the herder-farmer conflicts and addressing the economic challenges posed by reduced federal allocations. Governor Ortom navigated these crises through open dialogue, engaging community leaders and seeking support from civil society and international organizations. His resilience and commitment to peace were evident in those difficult times.

TOSCADNEWS: With the new administration in place, how would you assess Governor Hyacinth Alia’s performance so far? Do you think he is building on Ortom’s policies or taking a completely different direction?

Governor Alia made a number of promises during the campaigns but so far, he is yet to fulfill them aside the payment of salaries which all other governors are paying now that there is no fuel subsidy and allocations to states have increased by 400%. His government has also neglected a very important aspect of governance – security. A number of people are being killed on a daily basis in Benue State but the Governor and his administration have continued to describe the attacks as mere skirmishes, insisting that there is relative peace in the state.

TOSCADNEWS: What’s next for Samuel Ortom? Is he planning to remain active in politics, or does he have other ambitions outside governance?

Samuel Ortom remains committed to public service and engages in political activities or advocacy, focusing on issues close to his heart, particularly agriculture and peacebuilding. His passion for community and humanitarian service continues to drive him.

TOSCADNEWS: What’s your message to Benue People and Journalists?

To the people of Benue, I urge continued engagement in governance and development. To journalists, I encourage my colleagues to uphold the principles of integrity and truth in their reporting. Our role is vital in shaping public discourse and holding leaders accountable. Together, we can work towards a better society.

Meet Toscad’s MAN OF THE WEEK:

TERVER AKASE
(Former Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to Benue State Governor)

Birth and Academic Career

Terver Akase was born on April 02, 1977 into the family of Mr and Mrs Pius Akase Ikpor of Agbeede, Gaav in Konshisha local government area of Benue State. He enrolled into St. Patrick’s Primary School Igbo, Agbeede, and on completion of his primary education, proceeded to Government Secondary School Korinya both in Konshisha before completing his secondary education at Mbawuar Secondary School Ihugh in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State in 1995.

Akase is a graduate of Mass Communication from Benue State University, Makurdi (2004) and holds a Master of Sciences degree in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the same university. He is currently studying for his PhD in Political Science. Akase also attended the College of Advanced and Professional Studies, Makurdi (now) Alfred Akawe Torkula Polytechnic in 1996/97) before gaining admission into Benue State University.

He is an alumnus of the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Programme, IVLP of the United States of America (2012 class).

Akase also holds the Executive Masters Certificate in Leadership, Diplomacy, and Team Development which he obtained from the African School of Diplomacy and International Relations.

Professional Career:

Terver Akase joined the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Enugu Zonal Station in September 2006. Barely a year after, he was posted to Port Harcourt, Rivers State as Correspondent of FRCN (Radio Nigeria).

Mr Akase served as FRCN Correspondent in Rivers State between 2008 and 2013, during which period he rose to become the Chairman, Correspondents’ Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Rivers State. He later became the Federal Radio Corporation’s Senior Editor in Enugu before his transfer to Abuja in January 2014 to the FRCN, Headquarters, Abuja where he worked between 2014 and 2015.

Akase was appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State
on Media in September 2015. In January 2016, owing to his credible performance, he was elevated to the position of Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, a role he played till September 2021.

As a result of his sterling performance and commitment to duty, Governor Ortom, only a day after he was sworn-in for a second term on May 29, 2019, announced the reappointment of Terver Akase as his Chief Press Secretary.

Governor Samuel Ortom on April 28, 2022, reappointed Akase and elevated him as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, a position he held till the end of the 2nd tenure of his principal in 2023.

Awards:
While in Port Harcourt, Akase received several professional merit awards which included Rotary Club of Enugu’s award as Reporter of the Year in South East/South South 2008. He is also a winner of the maiden edition of Benue Celebrity Awards 2016 as Media Icon. National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS in September 2020 presented the award of excellence to Mr Akase for his support to students and youths in general, irrespective of where they come from.

Akase is a member of many professional bodies among which is the global network of professional journalists called Investigative Reporters and Editors, IRE.
He is also an Advertising Practitioner and is a member of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, ARCON.

He is married to Mrs Jessica Aver Akase and they are blessed with four children.

Akase’s hobbies include football, reading and assisting people.