Benue: PDP raises alarm as DSS picks spokesman, Bemgba Iortyom

Mr. Bemgba Iortyom, the Publicity Secretary of the Benue State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reportedly been arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Makurdi.

Reports indicate that Iortyom was taken into custody on Monday during a scheduled appointment with the state security agency.

Sources with knowledge of the situation revealed that Iortyom’s arrest may be linked to a petition filed against him by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Confirming the arrest, Mr. Cornelius Hwande, the media consultant to the Benue PDP, who was present during the incident, stated, “As soon as we arrived, at about 2:11 pm, two gentlemen walked up to us, claiming to be from the office of the Director and took Bemgba Iortyom away.”

He further commented, “It is not common for the DSS to invite anyone without a reason, especially the Publicity Secretary of an opposition party like Bemgba Iortyom, known for fearlessly expressing his views as an opposition spokesperson and remaining one of the most vocal voices against the administration of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.

“And with the recent remarks by the incumbent Governor Hyacinth Alia, it is difficult not to link him with this sudden invitation of Mr Iortyom by the DSS and his imminent detention,” he stated.