MAKURDI — Following the resignation of former Governor Gabriel Suswam from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), all eyes turned to his successor and long-term rival, Samuel Ortom. However, the immediate past Governor has firmly rejected following suit, declaring his unwavering commitment to the party while ruling out a personal run for office in 2027.
Addressing over 1,300 former political appointees at his Makurdi residence on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Ortom explicitly stated, “I remain in the PDP and I am not going anywhere.” His stance marks a significant divergence from Suswam, who dumped the party over unresolved leadership crises.
Key Highlights of Ortom’s Current Position:
- Strategic Partnerships: While remaining a PDP BoT member, Ortom revealed the party is open to “strategic alliances” with other political groups to unseat the incumbent, Governor Hyacinth Alia, in 2027. This has fueled speculation about a potential political understanding with Senator George Akume.
- No 2027 Ambition: Ortom announced he will not contest any election in 2027, citing a desire to “wait for God’s wish” after admitting his 2023 senatorial bid failed because he did not consult divine guidance before accepting the forms.
- Apology for 2023 Errors: The former Governor issued a public apology for imposing Titus Uba as the 2023 governorship candidate, a move he now describes as a “costly mistake” that harmed the party’s fortunes.
- Leadership of the G-14: Ortom continues to consolidate his grip on the PDP structure in Benue, notably assuming co-leadership of the G-14 elders’ group, a move that reportedly contributed to Suswam’s decision to exit.
Opposition Disunity Exploited
While Ortom pledges to rebuild the PDP, his willingness to form “partnerships” without leaving the party mirrors the broader disunity in the national opposition. The All Progressives Congress (APC) has already signaled its intent to exploit these internal PDP rifts, especially as heavyweights like Suswam migrate toward the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
As the political map of the Middle Belt shifts, the rivalry between Ortom and Suswam appears to have reached a permanent divide—one fighting from within the “Umbrella,” and the other seeking a “Third Force” elsewhere.
