Political Turmoil in Benue as PDP Suspends Ortom, Other Key Party Member

The Benue State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has recently been embroiled in major turmoil, culminating in the suspension of several key figures within the party.

On August 5th, 2024, the PDP announced the suspension of former Governor Samuel Ortom and three other officials due to alleged anti-party activities. This decision was made during a meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) held in Makurdi.

According to a statement released by Chief Bemgba Iortyom, the party’s state publicity officer, the suspended members include the state Deputy Chairman, Isaac Mffo, and the state Publicity Secretary, Bemgba Iortyom.

The suspensions were attributed to various charges, including the snatching of election materials during the recent Ward Congresses, which led to the non-conduct of congresses in several local government areas such as Buruku, Gboko, Ushongo, Guma, Tarka, Kwande, and Ohimini.

The statement further detailed that the suspended officials are accused of forging and impersonating the State Working Committee to achieve their individual aims, instigating violence and crisis during the ward congresses, and mismanagement of the party's finances.

They have been directed to appear before a disciplinary committee to address these allegations within the period of their suspension.

In addition to these suspensions, the PDP in Benue State is also dealing with the fallout from the alleged suspension of its State Chairman, Sir John Ngbede, State Secretary, Joseph Nyam, and State Organising Secretary, Moses Audu. These leaders were handed a one-month suspension for similar accusations of impersonation and inciting disruptions.

The political landscape in Benue has been further complicated by the involvement of former Governor Ortom, who has been accused of leading and abetting the snatching of election materials.

Ortom, an ally of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, was also criticized for his choice of the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 election and for urging the Benue PDP to vote for the APC in the 2027 Presidential election.