The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has declared he is not afraid to contest the Abia State governorship ahead of the 2027 general election.

Kalu made the statement on Tuesday during a meeting with political leaders and community elders in his Bende Federal Constituency, where he acknowledged growing calls for him to join the race.

“I am not afraid. I am prepared to listen to what you have said. I will come back with a decision soon,” he said.

He described the support he has received as “organic” and assured stakeholders that he would soon make a formal announcement on his next political move.

During the meeting, community elders presented him with a machete and traditional girdle—symbols of readiness and endorsement—while offering prayers and blessings.

“You have always done this symbolic preparation and given me the blessings of our elders and the spirit of our land. And every time I have gone with your blessing, I have always won,” Kalu added.

He noted that his final decision would be made public in Umuahia, in line with constitutional provisions.

Stakeholders at the gathering, including Madukwe Ukaegbu and Hagler Okorie, commended his leadership and performance, describing him as capable of leading the state.

Support groups across the constituency also displayed placards urging him to enter the governorship race, reflecting growing momentum behind his potential candidacy.