OTUKPO, BENUE STATE — A viral video circulating on Facebook has sparked controversy in Benue South Senatorial District, with concerns raised over alleged threats against residents who do not support Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration.
The footage, which has attracted attention on social media, reportedly shows a gathering in Otukpo where individuals described by critics as the “Pregnant Men Association” issued warnings concerning political activities and opposition to the governor’s administration.
Reports on the viral footage indicate that Terver Gbenda was seen distributing ₦2,000 in cash and 10-kilogramme bags of rice to people gathered in Otukpo. The same footage reportedly captured remarks warning against allowing individuals to campaign against Governor Alia in the area. The reported distribution and remarks have prompted public discussion about the intersection of political mobilisation and material assistance.
According to Idoma Voice, Gbenda urged residents to support candidates aligned with the governor and called on them to resist political activities he characterised as attempts to mislead the people. The publication reported that he also challenged critics to account for their contributions to Otukpo and Zone C.
The remarks have attracted condemnation from the OchetohaK’Idoma Youth Wing Worldwide, whose president, Comrade Magaji Mike Alidu, reportedly demanded an apology and insisted that Zone C was not a conquered territory.
Another youth group, operating under the Office of the National Youth Leader of the Idoma Area Traditional Council, reportedly called for an immediate apology and clarification, urging youths to avoid political confrontation and resolve differences through peaceful and lawful means.
The controversy has also prompted calls for security agencies to scrutinise the reported remarks. The Peoples Democratic Party’s Benue State chapter reportedly called for an investigation into the allegations, while attributing the remarks to directives from the governor. That attribution remains a claim by the party and has not been independently established.
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, the incident highlights the need for public officials, political appointees and their supporters to respect political pluralism and ensure that disagreements do not escalate into intimidation or violence.
COPDEM Media TV will continue to monitor developments and any official response from the Benue State Government, Terver Gbenda and relevant security authorities.
