Former Governor of Benue State and ex-Senator representing the Benue North-East Senatorial District, Gabriel Suswam, has announced his intention to return to the Nigerian Senate in the 2027 general elections. The declaration came during a public event over the weekend, marking a significant political move for the seasoned politician.
Suswam, who recently switched allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), reflected on the political history of Benue State. He noted that since he entered politics in 1998, the state has been characterized by strong party loyalty. “Benue State was completely a PDP state for its first 16 years. And then subsequently after that, they moved to the APC,” he said. “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.”
The former governor, who served two terms in office, emphasized his commitment to representing the interests of his constituents. “As a politician, if you are still strong enough to contest an election, you always want to contest elections,” Suswam stated. He clarified that his only viable option for the 2027 elections is the Senate, as the Nigerian Constitution bars him from running for governor again. “Of course, I’ll be running for Senate,” he affirmed.
Suswam’s political journey has been marked by significant shifts, most recently his defection to the APC. His decision to seek a return to the Senate underscores his enduring influence in Benue State politics and his alignment with the current political dynamics in the region.
The 2027 general elections are expected to be a pivotal moment for Nigerian politics, with several high-profile figures like Suswam positioning themselves for key roles. His candidacy is likely to draw attention, given his experience and the evolving political landscape in Benue State.
As the election season approaches, Suswam’s move will be closely watched by political analysts and voters alike, particularly in light of his recent party switch and his stated commitment to the APC’s principles.
