PDP officials remanded in Makurdi prison on cyber crime charges

A Benue High Court in Makurdi has ordered the detention of Isaac Mffo, former Deputy Chairman of the Benue State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Bemgba Iortyom, the former State Publicity Secretary, at the Makurdi Correctional Centre.

Justice Kelvin Mbanongon issued the order on Tuesday in response to allegations of criminal conspiracy, cyber crimes, and defamation against Prof. Nicholas Ada, High Chief Terngu Tsegba, and former Benue Assembly Speaker Terseer Tsumba.

According to the prosecution, Iortyom and Mffo are accused of claiming that Ada, Tsegba, and Tsumba had sponsored thugs to disrupt Ward Congresses in Benue State, causing unrest within the PDP. They are also accused of embezzling funds meant for the 2023 elections in Benue State.

Defense attorney A.U. Gar requested bail for his clients on the grounds of self-recognition. However, C.N. Agudu opposed this request, arguing that the serious nature of the accusations warranted their continued detention.

Justice Mbanongon agreed that the serious nature of the cyber crime allegations required careful handling and ordered that the accused be held at the Makurdi Correctional Centre while investigations continue. The next court hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2024.