Confusion erupted in the Benue State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday as newly elected officials arrived at the party’s secretariat to assume office, only to find it locked.
Three weeks ago, the party’s caretaker committee members claimed they were forced out of the secretariat and that former governor Samuel Ortom had offered one of his buildings as a temporary solution. However, Ortom’s media aide denied these claims.
The original secretariat was donated to the party by former governor Gabriel Suswam, whose media aide also denied any eviction.
When the new party leadership, led by newly elected chairman Ezekiel Adaji, arrived at the old secretariat on Friday, they found the premises closed. Adaji was unable to determine why and was informed by the caretaker committee secretary that they were also unaware of the situation.
Adaji said he would consult with relevant stakeholders to determine the next steps.
Earlier on Friday, the party held a state congress to elect its new leadership. Adaji, a former member of the House of Representatives, won the election with 2,482 votes out of 2,900 accredited delegates.
Other newly elected officials include State Secretary Comrade Dan Nyikwagh, State Public Secretary Hon Tim Nyor, Youth Leader Ibya Terkimbi, and Women Leader Mrs Alice Albert.
In his acceptance speech, Adaji expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to reconcile aggrieved party members and work to bring the party back to power.
