The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has dismissed claims that former governor and senator, Gabriel Suswam, recently resigned from the party, insisting that he had ceased to be a PDP member long before the alleged resignation letter surfaced.
The party stated this in a release signed by its State Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyor, reacting to a letter dated February 4, 2026, circulating on social media and purportedly authored by Suswam announcing his resignation from the PDP.
According to the party, the letter was never communicated through any recognized PDP channel and only came to public attention via social media platforms.
While acknowledging Suswam’s past contributions to the party as a former member of the House of Representatives, governor of Benue State, and senator, the PDP said it was necessary to set the record straight.
The party maintained that Suswam had effectively exited the PDP several months ago after openly aligning himself with a political coalition outside the party. It said his involvement was evident through his attendance at coalition meetings, participation in its public unveiling in Benue State, and the donation of his personal property for use as the coalition’s secretariat after the PDP vacated the same premises.
The PDP further cited Section 8 of its Constitution, which stipulates that any member who fails to pay membership subscription for twelve consecutive months automatically ceases to be a member. It said Suswam fell within this category and was consequently expelled during his open association with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“By implication, one cannot resign from a party of which one is no longer a member,” the statement said.
Responding to Suswam’s claim that internal crises influenced his decision, the PDP said the assertion did not reflect present realities, noting that more than 90 per cent of internal disputes at national, zonal, and state levels had been resolved through reconciliation efforts, leadership adjustments, and court rulings.
The party also alleged that many of the issues referenced in the letter were largely instigated by Suswam himself, adding that since his departure, the PDP in Benue State has experienced renewed unity and coordination under the leadership of former governor Samuel Ortom and the State Working Committee led by Rt. Hon. Ezekiel A. Adaji.
It cited a recent stakeholders’ meeting convened by Ortom, which it said was well attended by party leaders across the state, including individuals previously considered loyal to Suswam, who publicly reaffirmed their commitment to the PDP.
Despite the disagreement, the party said it respects Suswam’s right to pursue any political path of his choosing and harbours no ill feelings against him.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal harmony and strengthening its structures, assuring members and supporters that the party in Benue State remains stable, united, and focused on providing a credible alternative to the people.
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