Reps Deputy Speaker Kalu signals intention to join Abia governorship race
There are strong indications that Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, is preparing to vie for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Abia State. The
There are strong indications that Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, is preparing to vie for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Abia State.
The signals emerged during Kalu’s visit to the people of Isiala Ngwa North and South local government areas, where he informed residents that he would soon summon them to the state capital, Umuahia, to formally announce his intentions.
Acknowledging widespread calls for him to run, Kalu noted the growing support from various parts of the state, including Bende and Obingwa, while expressing appreciation for the confidence reposed in him. He assured that his official decision would be communicated in due course.
The Deputy Speaker made the remarks during the official inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and the declaration of interest by Chief Uzoma Ihuka, who is seeking the APC ticket for the House of Representatives representing Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency.
According to Kalu, a significant declaration regarding his governorship ambition would take place at the appropriate constitutional venue in Umuahia, the epicenter of the state’s political mandate.
Advertisement
300x250
He further assured that stakeholders across Abia would be formally invited to converge in Umuahia in the coming days, where he would collectively respond to the calls for his governorship bid.
The development signals a growing momentum within the APC in Abia State as party stakeholders and political actors closely watch the unfolding landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said, "I am now in Isialangwa, and they're saying, ' Come and run for governor. The same way I answered the people of Bende, the same way I answered the people of Obingwa, is the same way I will answer you.
“I have received your request for me to run for governor of Abia state, but I will respond. I will respond in the coming days because I don't want to do it local government by local government. I want to invite all of you to the capital.
“When we talk about governorship, when we talk about leading the people of Abia State, there is only one place the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has listed as the right place, the right jurisdiction to exercise the power of the office of the governor, and that is not in any other place but Umuahia.
"It will not be in Isialangwa. It will not be in Obingwa or Aba. It will be in Umuahia. So wait for our invitation. We are going to invite you in a few days to come. All of you will come in your numbers and make that request again there at the state capital. When I hear it clearly on that day, I will respond."
Advertisement
300x250
Stakeholders from Isiala Ngwa North/South had joined the growing call for the Deputy Speaker to contest the governorship.
The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu's administration, describing it as a unifying force that has strengthened the APC across the country.
Read Also: Deputy Speaker Kalu targets 150 million partners for Tinubu’s re-election
According to him, while other political parties continue to struggle with internal crises, the APC remains focused, stable, and committed to delivering progress for Nigerians, adding that the level of development currently being experienced under the APC-led Federal Government is only a glimpse of greater achievements ahead, particularly for Abia State.
The gathering witnessed a significant influx of defectors from opposition parties, especially the Labour Party, who cited renewed hope, purposeful leadership, and visible progress within the APC as reasons for their decision to join the ruling party.
Advertisement
300x250
The new entrants were formally received and declared members of the APC, marking a major boost for the party’s grassroots strength in Isiala Ngwa.
Kalu assured the new members of inclusive governance and people-oriented leadership.
They emphasised that the APC is committed to going beyond campaign promises by directly engaging communities, identifying their needs, and implementing practical solutions that will improve livelihoods across the state.
