The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has expressed a lack of confidence in its Publicity Secretary, Bemgba Iortyom, urging caution against internal dissension within the party’s ranks.
During a World Press Conference in Makurdi on Monday, party stakeholders refuted Iortyom’s recent television statement that the Benue State PDP would support President Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 Presidential election for fairness and political balance. They clarified that Iortyom’s comments were his personal opinion and not representative of the party’s stance.
Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Prof. Nicholas Ada, who read the statement, emphasized that the party had not authorized Iortyom to endorse any presidential candidate. He reiterated that the PDP would back all its candidates, including the future presidential nominee, regardless of their geographical origin.
The stakeholders called on the State Working Committee to promptly disassociate the party from Iortyom’s claims and establish a disciplinary committee to investigate and potentially sanction him for his remarks, which they deemed detrimental to party unity.
“Benue PDP should set up a disciplinary committee to investigate and consequently punish Mr. Iortyom for such unfortunate and indicting claims to serve as a deterrent to other members engaged in anti-party activities,” Prof. Ada stated.
He further urged that upcoming party congresses should prioritize electing credible and dedicated members to leadership positions to avoid entrusting power to individuals with a history of anti-party conduct.
Highlighting Iortyom’s record of actions against party interests, Ada noted, “What the PDP needs at this material time is total overhaul and rebuilding instead of baseless arguments over who flies the party’s Presidential Ticket in an election that is far three years away.”
The press conference concluded with a strong message that the party’s focus should be on strengthening its structure and preparing for future challenges, rather than engaging in premature electioneering discussions.
