Former Benue State governor and Senator Gabriel Torwua Suswam has affirmed that there is no political divide within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, following his victory in the party’s senatorial primary election. Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, Suswam highlighted a recent reconciliation meeting between Governor Hyacinth Alia, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, and key APC stakeholders at the Government House in Makurdi. He emphasized that the meeting successfully resolved tensions, with both Alia and Akume publicly confirming the reconciliation.
Suswam emerged as the winner of the APC Senatorial Primary for Benue North East, Zone A, after securing 131,083 votes. His victory came after a closely contested election held across seven local government areas: Katsina-Ala, Logo, Ukum, Konshisha, Vandeikya, Kwande, and Ushongo. He defeated incumbent senator Emmanuel Memga Udende, who was his closest rival in the primary.
In his remarks, Suswam stressed that his campaign was conducted under the APC platform, not aligned with any individual faction or political figure. He dismissed suggestions that he was part of a splinter group or supporting any particular camp within the party. “I was nominated and contested under the platform of the APC, not the platform of the SGF or the governor,” he stated clearly.
Suswam also reaffirmed Governor Alia’s leadership role in Benue politics, describing him as the “political father of the state.” He noted that all aspirants and party members are seeking the governor’s support, underscoring the importance of unity within the party. “The governor is the political father of the state as of now, so everybody must seek the support of the governor,” he said, adding that he is grateful for his victory in the nomination process.
The former governor’s comments come amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2023 general elections. His win in the primary positions him as a strong contender for the senatorial seat in Benue North East. With reconciliation efforts reportedly solidified, APC leaders in Benue are now focusing on consolidating support and preparing for the next phase of the electoral process.
Suswam’s victory and the declared unity within the party signal a potential shift in Benue’s political dynamics, as stakeholders work together to present a united front ahead of the general elections. The outcome may influence party strategies and voter mobilization efforts in the state.
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