Suswam Resigns from PDP, Cites Prolonged Internal Crisis
A former Governor of Benue State and ex-Senator representing Benue North-East, Senator Gabriel Suswam has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing persistent internal conflicts and unresolved leadership disputes within the party. Suswam, in a resignation letter dated February 4, 2026 and addressed to the Chairman of the PDP in Mbagber Council Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State said his decision was taken after careful reflection on the current state of the party.
The former lawmaker noted that while the PDP had provided him with the platform to serve the country in several capacities, including as a member of the House of Representatives, governor of Benue State, and senator, the party had gradually lost the cohesion and internal democracy it once represented. He expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunities it gave him over the years but lamented that the PDP is now beset by deep-rooted internal disputes involving leadership, party structure, discipline, and ideological direction.
According to Suswam, several attempts to address the party’s internal challenges through reconciliatory committees and public assurances have failed to yield meaningful results, leaving the party in what he described as a state of persistent crisis. He stated that the PDP currently appears trapped in what he termed a “political intensive care,” with no clear consensus on how to resolve its challenges or restore internal stability.
The former governor further explained that as a committed democrat, he found it increasingly difficult to align his political philosophy and personal convictions with the current realities within the PDP. Suswam stressed that political parties are expected to serve as platforms for the exchange of ideas, discipline, and constructive political engagement, rather than becoming arenas for prolonged internal conflicts.
He noted that the prevailing situation in the PDP no longer reflects those ideals, making it necessary for him to step aside from the party. While announcing his exit, the former senator wished the PDP well and expressed hope that the party would one day find the courage and consensus required to resolve its internal contradictions. Suswam also conveyed his appreciation to party members at all levels for their support and shared political journey over the years.
