- Gabriel Suswam announced plans to return to the Senate in 2027 after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress
- He explained that his switch reflected Benue State’s shift towards the APC, aligning with the political preferences of the electorate
- Suswam stated that constitutional term limits ruled out another governorship bid, making the Senate his only viable electoral option
Former Benue State Governor and ex-Senator, Gabriel Suswam, has announced his intention to return to the Senate in the 2027 general elections.
Suswam, who previously represented Benue North-East Senatorial District, made the declaration during a public event over the weekend. His announcement comes shortly after his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Explaining his decision, Suswam said political alignment in Benue State has historically followed dominant party structures. He noted that the state was largely controlled by the PDP for its first 16 years in Nigeria’s current democratic dispensation before shifting support to the APC in recent years.
According to him, his move to the APC reflects the prevailing political sentiment among the people of the state. He suggested that, as a politician, aligning with the dominant party structure is consistent with the preferences of the electorate.
“As a Benue son, I won’t be an exception to what my people want and what my people believe. They now believe in the principles and philosophy of the APC,” he said.
Suswam also indicated that he remains politically active and willing to contest elections, provided he is eligible. He acknowledged that constitutional limitations prevent him from seeking another term as governor, having already served two terms in that office.
He stated that the Senate remains the only viable elective position available to him at this stage of his political career. “The only election that I can contest now is the Senate,” he said, adding that a return to the governorship is not constitutionally permissible.
The former governor’s planned comeback sets the stage for potential political contests within the APC in Benue State, particularly as the party prepares for the 2027 elections. Observers note that his experience and previous tenure in both executive and legislative roles could influence the dynamics of the race.
His declaration also reflects a broader trend of political realignments and repositioning among Nigerian politicians ahead of the next general election cycle.