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Suspected Thugs Attack Benue PDP Media Consultant, Burn Vehicle in Makurdi

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 14th, 2026.

Suspected political thugs on Friday night reportedly attacked Bemgba Iortyom, the recently appointed media consultant to the Peoples Democratic Party in Benue State, setting his vehicle ablaze during the incident in Makurdi.

The attack occurred less than 24 hours after the PDP formally announced Iortyom’s appointment. The announcement had earlier been made in a statement by the party’s state secretary, Dan Nyikwagh, according to reports carried by The Punch.

Recounting the incident to journalists on Saturday, Iortyom said the attack took place along George Akume Way, one of the busiest roads in the state capital.

According to him, he had stopped by the roadside intending to make a phone call when the attackers struck.

“Five men arrived on two motorcycles and suddenly blocked my vehicle,” he explained. “They were armed with short axes and began advancing towards me. I quickly opened the car door and ran for my safety before they could reach me.”

The assailants allegedly poured fuel on his Peugeot 406 before setting it on fire. The vehicle was completely destroyed in the blaze.

Iortyom said passers-by who witnessed the incident could only shout warnings and urge him to escape as the situation unfolded rapidly.

“I thank God for giving me the presence of mind to escape before things got worse,” he added.

According to coverage referenced by The Guardian Nigeria, the attack has sparked concerns about rising political tensions and security issues in the state.

The PDP media consultant confirmed that the incident had been reported to the Nigeria Police Force, and that investigations are currently underway.

Reacting to the development, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Udeme Edet, said the authorities would look into the matter following the official complaint.

“As long as the victim has reported the case, the police will proceed with an investigation,” Edet said in comments cited by The Nation.

Security analysts say the incident highlights growing concerns about political violence in parts of Nigeria, particularly as political activities gradually intensify ahead of future elections. Authorities are expected to determine the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible in the coming days.