Former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam has announced his intention to defect to the All Progressives Congress, APC. According to a statement by his Personal Assistant, Emmanuel Hangeior, Senator Suswam’s decision is driven by a desire to collaborate with key government officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, to ensure Benue State benefits from federal initiatives.
As a two-term governor, Suswam’s move is seen as a significant shift towards people-focused governance, prioritizing the state’s development over partisan interests. By joining the APC, he aims to work closely with Governor Hyacinth Alia to address pressing challenges facing Benue, including insecurity, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. This cooperation is expected to facilitate the implementation of federal programs and projects in the state.
The decision to defect is characterized as a move towards unity and progress, with Suswam emphasizing the need for Benue leaders to put the interests of the people first. His personal assistant, Hangeior, noted that the senator believes it is time for leaders to close ranks and prioritize the state’s prosperity. This new spirit of collaboration is expected to foster a more conducive environment for development and growth in Benue.
The development is significant, given Benue’s strategic position in Nigeria’s political landscape. As a major state in the North-Central region, its stability and progress are crucial to the country’s overall development. By joining forces with the federal government, Suswam hopes to leverage resources and expertise to tackle the state’s challenges and improve the lives of its citizens.
The move is also seen as a strategic decision, given the current political climate in Nigeria. With the APC being the ruling party at the federal level, Suswam’s defection may enhance Benue’s access to federal funding and support. As the state navigates its development priorities, the collaboration between Suswam, Governor Alia, and federal officials is expected to yield positive outcomes for the people of Benue.