Benue State, located in Nigeria's North Central region, is widely recognized as the "Food Basket of the Nation." While its fame largely stems from its agricultural productivity, Benue is also known for producing influential political figures who have made their mark on both state and national platforms. These individuals, through politics, business ventures, and strategic investments, have amassed substantial wealth over the years.
In this comprehensive post, we examine the top 10 richest politicians in Benue State as of 2025, shedding light on their careers, financial worth, and sources of income. This list reflects both former and current political players who have significantly impacted the state’s governance and economic landscape.
1. David Mark
Estimated Net Worth: $200 Million
David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark is undoubtedly the wealthiest politician in Benue State. Born in 1948, David Mark is a retired Nigerian Army Brigadier General who transitioned into politics after military service. He represented the Benue South Senatorial District from 1999 to 2019, serving as the President of the Nigerian Senate from 2007 to 2015.
His wealth is tied to decades of public service, military benefits, business investments in real estate, telecommunications, and agriculture. Mark's ability to maintain political relevance for two decades reflects his strong influence and wealth management skills.
2. Samuel Ortom
Estimated Net Worth: $6 Million
Samuel Ioraer Ortom served as the Executive Governor of Benue State from 2015 to 2023. Prior to his tenure as governor, Ortom was the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment during President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
Ortom is also a savvy businessman. He is the founder of Oracle Business Limited, a conglomerate involved in printing, trading, and farming. His agricultural investments, particularly in cassava processing and poultry farming, generate significant revenue. He remains an influential political figure and entrepreneur in the state.
3. George Akume
Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
George Akume, a veteran politician, served as Governor of Benue State from 1999 to 2007. After his gubernatorial tenure, he became a Senator representing Benue North-West from 2007 to 2019. He has also held ministerial roles, including Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.
Akume's financial status has been bolstered by years of political service, federal appointments, and investments in real estate and farming. He is one of the most experienced politicians from Benue State.
4. Gabriel Suswam
Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
Gabriel Torwua Suswam is a lawyer and former governor who served Benue State between 2007 and 2015. Prior to becoming governor, he was a member of the House of Representatives. He is currently a serving Senator representing Benue North-East.
Suswam’s net worth is attributed to his long-standing political career, legal practice, and investments in transportation, real estate, and hospitality. He is also involved in philanthropy and youth development programs.
5. Steven Lawani
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Chief Steven Lawani is a seasoned politician and business tycoon who served as the Deputy Governor of Benue State from 2007 to 2015. With a background in economics and administration, Lawani ventured into the private sector early, owning businesses in manufacturing, trading, and construction.
His wealth predates his time in politics. However, his time in public office provided opportunities for further growth and influence in business and governance.
6. Justice Ejembi Eko
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Justice Ejembi Eko is a retired Supreme Court Justice with decades of service in Nigeria's judiciary system. Though judges typically earn fixed salaries, Eko's wealth has been accumulated through prudent financial management and strategic investments, particularly in real estate.
Known for his integrity and professionalism, Justice Eko continues to serve as a legal consultant and mediator. His post-retirement engagements also contribute to his financial standing.
7. Ameh Ebute
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Ameh Ebute served as the President of the Nigerian Senate during the Third Republic. Though his term was short-lived due to military intervention in 1993, Ebute has remained a relevant voice in Nigeria’s political and legal circles.
A seasoned lawyer, Ebute owns a thriving legal consultancy and is involved in real estate development. His influence spans across politics, law, and social advocacy.
8. Barnabas Gemade
Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
Barnabas Andyar Iyorhyer Gemade is a former National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and served as Senator representing Benue North-East. Gemade has a solid background in engineering and previously managed Benue Cement Company (BCC).
He transitioned into politics in the 1990s and rose to national prominence. His earnings from the construction sector, alongside his political roles, account for his wealth.
9. Michael Mku
Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million
Michael Ornguga Mku is a political veteran and entrepreneur. He has contested for various political offices and played key roles in campaign management for national figures.
Mku’s wealth comes from property investments, hospitality, and consultancy. He owns several high-value properties within and outside Benue State. Though not holding public office in recent years, he remains politically active.
10. Abba Moro
Estimated Net Worth: Estimated Unavailable
Patrick Abba Moro is the current Senator representing Benue South and formerly served as Minister of the Interior under President Goodluck Jonathan. Though his exact net worth is undisclosed, his high-level federal appointments and political tenure suggest considerable wealth.
Moro is a career academic and administrator, having served as a university lecturer and administrator before moving into politics. His investments span real estate and education.
Summary Table: Richest Politicians in Benue State (2025)
| Rank | Name | Estimated Net Worth | Key Political Roles | Primary Sources of Wealth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | David Mark | $200 Million | Senate President, Senator (1999–2019) | Real Estate, Politics, Telecoms |
| 2 | Samuel Ortom | $6 Million | Governor (2015–2023), Minister of State | Farming, Printing, Politics |
| 3 | George Akume | $3 Million | Governor, Senator, Minister | Politics, Real Estate |
| 4 | Gabriel Suswam | $3 Million | Governor, Senator | Legal Practice, Hospitality |
| 5 | Steven Lawani | $5 Million | Deputy Governor | Manufacturing, Trading, Construction |
| 6 | Justice Ejembi Eko | $5 Million | Supreme Court Justice | Real Estate, Legal Consultancy |
| 7 | Ameh Ebute | $5 Million | Senate President (1993) | Law, Real Estate |
| 8 | Barnabas Gemade | $3 Million | Senator, PDP Chairman | Construction, Politics |
| 9 | Michael Mku | $2 Million | Political Strategist, Campaign Manager | Real Estate, Hospitality |
| 10 | Abba Moro | N/A | Senator, Interior Minister | Politics, Education Sector |
Conclusion
Benue State has long been a fertile ground not just for agriculture but for political leadership. The top 10 richest politicians listed above are a testament to how politics, when combined with business acumen, can yield significant financial success.
From former Senate Presidents to influential governors and ministers, these individuals have shaped both the political and economic landscape of Benue State. Their investments in real estate, agriculture, law, and infrastructure underscore their diversified approaches to wealth creation.
As Nigeria continues to evolve, these political figures remain pillars of influence in Benue and beyond, offering lessons in leadership, resilience, and entrepreneurship.
