The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Benue State Chapter, has called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to invite and investigate the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Youth Mobilisation, Terver Gbenda, over alleged threats directed at supporters of opposition political parties in Otukpo.
The PDP made the demand in a statement signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Bright Yima Antyo, on Thursday, following reports of remarks made by Gbenda during a political gathering in Otukpo. Reports on the incident indicate that the governor’s aide warned against attempts to campaign against Governor Alia in the area and urged youths to resist such activities.
According to the PDP, the reported remarks are serious and should be subjected to an independent investigation to establish whether they constituted threats, intimidation or any violation of citizens’ political and constitutional rights.
The opposition party said the development was particularly concerning coming at a time when political activities are intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections and political parties are expected to conduct their activities peacefully and within the law.
“Democracy is not sustained by threats. It is sustained by tolerance, persuasion and respect for opposing views,” the PDP said, arguing that any attempt to intimidate citizens because of their political choices could undermine democratic participation and peaceful political engagement.
The party also drew attention to the recent Peace Accord facilitated by the Benue State Police Command, which brought together political parties, candidates, security agencies and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections. At the meeting, Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, warned political actors against the use of thugs or criminal elements to intimidate opponents or disrupt lawful political activities, while assuring stakeholders of the command’s professionalism and impartiality.
The PDP therefore questioned whether the security agencies’ warnings against political intimidation would apply equally to government officials and political appointees, insisting that the law must be applied without fear or favour.
“The law must not become a weapon used against critics while those aligned with government are shielded from accountability. Justice loses its meaning when it becomes selective,” the statement said.
The party consequently demanded the immediate invitation and investigation of Gbenda, stressing that if the allegations against him are established, appropriate legal action should follow. It warned that failure to investigate credible allegations could create the perception that different standards of accountability apply to ordinary citizens and those connected to political power.
The PDP further expressed concern over what it described as the shrinking of political space through alleged intimidation, harassment and threats, saying citizens must be free to speak, organise, campaign and participate in political activities without fear.
“We urge security agencies to rise above partisan considerations and demonstrate that no individual is above the law,” the PDP said.
The party also reaffirmed its commitment to its constitutional role as an opposition party, saying it would continue to hold the government accountable, articulate alternative policies and participate in lawful political activities across Benue State.
“Benue State does not belong to a handful of political appointees. It belongs to all its people. No one has the right to monopolise the political space or intimidate those who think differently,” the statement added.
The PDP called on political leaders, their supporters and security agencies to uphold the spirit of the recently signed Peace Accord and ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into intimidation, violence or a breakdown of public order.
