A fresh political push has emerged in Abia State as stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) purchased expression of interest and nomination forms for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, urging him to contest the 2027 governorship election.
The forms were formally presented to him in Abuja on Saturday by a delegation that cited his national service record and legislative leadership as justification for the move.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, James Uko-Kalu, described Kalu as a unifying figure whose contributions in the National Assembly since 2019 have distinguished him in lawmaking and governance. He said the group has closely followed his political trajectory and believes his influence has driven several development-focused initiatives across communities.
He further noted that Kalu’s leadership style has inspired younger politicians, while visits to various communities reportedly revealed projects attributed to his influence, strengthening calls for him to assume a higher leadership role in the state.
Retired Major General Jack Nwaogbu commended Kalu’s efforts in promoting unity within the APC in Abia and the South-East, noting that the party has become more cohesive following divisions experienced during the 2023 elections.
Also speaking, Uzo Azubuike of Abia South Senatorial District said the delegation reflects a broader public sentiment, adding that Kalu’s potential candidacy could accelerate development in the state.
In his response, Kalu expressed appreciation for the gesture and said he would consult widely before making a formal decision. He linked the development to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on strengthening governance at the sub-national level.
He added that his position would be made public in the coming days, stressing that unity, commitment, and collective effort would be crucial to the future of the APC in Abia State.
Although he has not formally declared his ambition, the development signals a coordinated effort by stakeholders to draft him into the 2027 governorship race.
