The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has indicated readiness to contest the governorship election in Abia State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 polls.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that Kalu gave the indication during a visit to Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas, where he told residents he would soon invite them to Umuahia for a formal declaration.
Addressing supporters, the lawmaker acknowledged growing calls from different parts of the state urging him to join the governorship race.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Kalu stressed that any official declaration would take place in Umuahia, which he described as the constitutional seat of power in the state.
“When we talk about governorship, when we talk about leading the people of Abia State, there is only one place the constitution… has listed as the right place… and that is not in any other place but Umuahia,” he said.
“It will not be in Isialangwa. It will not be in Obingwa or Aba. It will be in Umuahia. So wait for our invitation.”
The Deputy Speaker said he had received similar calls from stakeholders in Bende and Obingwa, expressing appreciation for the confidence reposed in him.
He assured supporters that they would be formally invited to converge in Umuahia, where he would give a definitive response to the growing agitation for his candidacy.
Kalu spoke during the inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and the declaration of interest by Uzoma Ihuka, who is seeking the APC ticket for the House of Representatives seat representing Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency.
The event also witnessed increased political mobilisation within the party, with stakeholders reaffirming support for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Deputy Speaker expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a unifying force strengthening the APC nationwide.
According to him, while opposition parties grapple with internal crises, the APC remains stable and focused on delivering development.
He added that the progress being recorded under the current administration is only a glimpse of greater achievements ahead, particularly for Abia State.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the gathering also saw a wave of defections from opposition parties, especially the Labour Party, as new members cited renewed hope and purposeful leadership as reasons for joining the APC.
Kalu assured both new and existing members of inclusive and people-oriented leadership, pledging that the party would prioritise direct engagement with communities.
He stressed the APC’s commitment to identifying grassroots needs and implementing practical solutions aimed at improving livelihoods across Abia State.