Former Governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, has denied reports suggesting that he has defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that such claims are baseless and mischievous.
Speaking during a visit to the residence of Professor Saasongo Nongu in Makurdi, the state capital, Suswam described the rumours as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and tarnish his political image. He maintained that he remains a committed member of the ADC and has no plans to abandon the party.
“I am too big to dump the ADC in secret. Leaving the party quietly would be the height of disgrace to my personality and a betrayal to my loyalists,” Suswam declared, adding that he would never engage in any political move that could undermine the trust and loyalty of his supporters.
The former governor, who served from 2007 to 2015, said those behind the false reports were only trying to create confusion within the ADC and discredit his leadership role in the party. He noted that his political decisions have always been guided by transparency, consultation, and the collective interest of his supporters across Benue State.
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Suswam reaffirmed his loyalty to the ADC, describing it as a platform committed to good governance, youth empowerment, and inclusive politics. He said the party has continued to gain ground in Benue and other parts of Nigeria due to its clear ideology and the credibility of its members.
“I remain a proud and dedicated member of the ADC. My focus is on strengthening the party and expanding its influence in Benue and across the nation,” he said.
He urged his supporters and the general public to disregard rumours of his defection and continue to work for the growth of the ADC.
Political observers in Benue have noted that Suswam’s clarification comes amid increasing speculation about realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with many prominent politicians in the state reportedly being courted by major political parties.
Suswam’s public denial, however, reaffirms his current political stance and underscores his continued relevance in Benue’s evolving political landscape.