2027: Kalu yet to decide on joining Abia guber race, says Chukwu

Ahead of the 2027 poll, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, would decide whether to vie for the exalted seat of the governorship of Abia State at the appropriate time.

This is the view of the former minority leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon Chijioke Chukwu, who warned against the antics of selfish politicians asking him to declare his interest for the governorship of Abia State for reasons best known to them.

Chukwu, who is a staunch ally of Kalu, in a statement, asked him to concentrate on building legacies and fulfilling his electoral promises to his constituents.

He argued that the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) believes in the capacity of the Deputy Speaker to run for any office he chooses because he has the reach, the capacity and the cross party appeal adding this would be determined by the leadership of the party ably led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Chukwu, while reacting to the call by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu on the Deputy Speaker to declare his ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Elections, described the statement as uncharitable and a decoy to distract the Deputy Speaker from his efforts in repositioning the APC for better exploits.

We know that the silence of the Deputy Speaker has destabilized many, including the senator, in his political calculation to position his younger brother. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has never supported Ben Kalu and would not start today,” he said.
He commended the Deputy Speaker’s dedication and commitment to the transformation programme of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC. 

He called on the Deputy Speaker to be cautious of individuals who masquerade as APC supporters while secretly collaborating with opposition parties, adding that their advice may be tainted by selfish motives, aimed at undermining our party’s progress rather than genuinely contributing to its well-being

Chukwu, who represents the South East on the board of the North West Development Commission, also advised the Deputy Speaker to continue on the path of rebuilding the APC in Abia State and strengthen its grassroots impact.

“I am urging the Deputy Speaker to prioritize mobilizing our growing membership base, rather than rushing to declare ambitions. The Abia APC chapter has experienced remarkable growth, with membership surging over fivefold in just 90 days,” he said.

“This achievement is a direct result of the Deputy Speaker’s inclusive approach, fostering mutual respect among stakeholders and members. By building on this momentum, we can further strengthen our party’s foundation and position ourselves for future success.

When the time is right, and with God’s guidance, Benjamin Kalu will, after due consultation with his political family, address his party, constituents, and the people of Abia, as well as the broader Nigerian public on the issue.”