Abia 2027: Group storms APC secretariat, buys gov forms for Reps Dep Speaker Kalu

A coalition of political stakeholders on Saturday obtained the expression of interest and nomination forms of the Benjamin Kalu under the All Progressives Congress, urging him to join the 2027 governorship race in Abia State.

The delegation presented the forms to the Deputy Speaker in Abuja, explaining that their action was driven by his performance in public office and leadership experience at the national level.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, James Uko-Kalu, described Kalu as a bridge-builder whose contributions in the National Assembly have distinguished him as a capable leader.

“We are here because we recognise the invaluable contributions the Deputy Speaker has made to Nigeria’s legislative process, resulting in tangible developments. From 2019 till date, we have followed his work closely and can attest to his outstanding performance,” he said.

He further stated that Kalu’s style of leadership has inspired many emerging political figures.

“I personally toured several communities across our constituency and witnessed first-hand the projects executed under his leadership. Professionals and stakeholders alike are convinced that this is the right time for him to replicate that same spirit of statesmanship at the state level,” he added.

A retired major general from Abia Central, Jack Nwaogbu, praised Kalu for his role in strengthening unity within the APC in Abia and across the South-East region.

According to him, the party, which experienced internal crises during the 2023 general elections, has recently regained momentum.

“In the past seven months, there has been a remarkable rejuvenation of the party, largely due to the efforts of the Deputy Speaker and other well-meaning leaders who returned the party to its grassroots base,” he said.

Also speaking, Uzo Azubuike from Abia South Senatorial District described the delegation as representatives of the people, delivering what he called a widespread appeal for Kalu to contest the governorship seat.

Azubuike urged the Deputy Speaker to give serious consideration to the race, saying his leadership could fast-track development in the state.

Responding, Kalu appreciated the group for the confidence reposed in him and disclosed that he would hold consultations before making a final decision.

“You believe that if I come on board, it is because I share in the vision of the Eight-Point Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and his commitment to true federalism, which empowers sub-national entities to drive meaningful development.

“The purchase of this form is clearly a call for me to step forward. I have received it with gratitude, and within the next one or two days, after due consultations, I will make my position known.

“I sincerely thank you for this gesture. Ultimately, the narrative of Abia must change, and we will continue to work collectively within the party to achieve that. The prospects of the APC in Abia will depend largely on the determination, unity, and commitment of its members,” he said.

Kalu’s potential governorship ambition has continued to generate political conversations in Abia over the past year.

Since becoming a ranking member of the House in 2019 and later Deputy Speaker, he has steadily expanded his political influence within the APC and the South-East political space.

Although he has yet to officially declare his ambition, Saturday’s development represents the strongest indication so far of coordinated efforts by stakeholders to persuade him to enter the contest.