Nigerian Concord Newspaper
There was a major political shift in Makurdi Local Government Area on Tuesday as hundreds of traders from the North Bank Market, popularly known as the “Baranda Women,” defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The defection took place when the campaign train of Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom, the PDP candidate for Makurdi North, visited the area.
Addressing supporters, the Chairlady of the group, Mrs. Ayana Iorshase, said the decision to join the PDP was informed by the credibility of candidates presented by the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to her, the emergence of Dr. Ortom as the party’s candidate was the decisive factor.
“The choice of Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom is the icing on the cake. The dictatorial posture of the APC leadership, especially in Makurdi North, prompted our mass exodus from the party,” Mrs. Iorshase stated.
She added that supporting Dr. Ortom represents support for Benue women, noting that her election would create more opportunities for women across the state.
The group, led by Mrs. Iorshase and its Secretary, popularly known as Mama Junior of North Bank Market, pledged to mobilize massively for all PDP candidates in the state.
Receiving the new members, the Metropolitan Party Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Tion Paul Tyover, assured them of equal opportunities and full integration into party activities alongside older members.
Also speaking, the PDP candidate for Makurdi North, Hon. Titus Nomji, thanked the women for what he described as a bold and wise decision, promising to integrate them into his campaign structure and to hold an interactive session with them soon.
In her response, Dr. Mrs. Eunice Ortom thanked the women for their support and promised inclusive participation for all members in party activities if elected.
The event was attended by party stakeholders and supporters from across Makurdi Local Government.