Former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for Benue North-East, defeating incumbent Senator Emmanuel Udende in a decisive victory announced in Makurdi on Tuesday. The results, declared by the Chairman of the National Assembly Primary Election Committee in the state, Sabiu Mahuta, confirmed Suswam’s overwhelming lead with 131,083 votes, compared to Udende’s 1,364 votes. This outcome marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the region as the APC finalizes its senatorial candidates ahead of the upcoming general elections.
The APC also announced Francis Otta Agbo as the candidate for Benue South, where he secured 58,760 votes. He outperformed other aspirants including Daniel Onjeh (5,570), Patrick Idoko (2,732), Gabriel Oloche (5,246), Nelson Alapa (4,312), and Joseph Ojobo (6,782). In Benue North-West, Aber Terseer emerged victorious with 93,412 votes, defeating incumbent Senator Titus Zam, who received 2,763 votes, and other contenders in the race.
The primaries were conducted across all three senatorial districts in Benue State as part of the party’s internal selection process. The exercise was held at the APC secretariat in Makurdi, where results were officially announced after a thorough counting process. The party’s leadership emphasized that the primaries were conducted in accordance with party guidelines and electoral procedures to ensure fairness and transparency.
Gabriel Suswam’s victory in Benue North-East is seen as a major endorsement of his political influence in the state. His strong performance, particularly against a sitting senator, signals a possible realignment of political support in the region. Francis Otta Agbo, a former member of the House of Representatives, is expected to bring his legislative experience to the senatorial race in Benue South. Meanwhile, Aber Terseer’s win in Benue North-West adds a new dynamic to the political scene, especially given his connection to the Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Aber.
The APC’s conclusion of its senatorial primaries in Benue State positions the party to focus on campaign strategies and voter mobilization ahead of the general elections. With clear candidates now in place for all three senatorial districts, the party is preparing for a competitive electoral battle in a state known for its vibrant political activity. The outcomes of these primaries are expected to shape the political discourse in Benue State in the months leading up to the polls.
Leave a Comment