2027 Abia: Pressure Mounts on Kalu as Political Bloc Urges His Governorship Bid
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
A growing political momentum is building in Abia State ahead of the 2027 general elections, as key stakeholders from Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas have intensified calls on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu to contest for governor.
The development was disclosed in a press statement issued by Udora Orizu, Special Assistant on Press Affairs to the Deputy Speaker.
The call was made during the inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and declaration of interest by Chief Uzoma Ihuka to contest for the House of Representatives seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency.
Addressing the gathering, Kalu expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a unifying force strengthening the APC nationwide.
“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,” he said.
The event also witnessed a wave of defections from opposition parties, notably the Labour Party, as new members cited “renewed hope, purposeful leadership, and visible progress” within the APC as reasons for joining the ruling party.
Welcoming the defectors, Kalu assured them of inclusive governance and people-oriented leadership.
“We are committed to going beyond campaign promises by directly engaging communities, identifying their needs, and implementing practical solutions that will improve livelihoods,” he stated.
Responding to mounting pressure to declare his governorship ambition, the Deputy Speaker acknowledged the widespread support but said he would make his position known at the appropriate time.
“I have received your request for me to run for governor for Abia State, but I will respond in the coming days,” Kalu said.
He stressed that such a declaration would be made in Umuahia, the state capital, in line with constitutional and symbolic considerations.
“When we talk about governorship… there is only one place… to exercise the power of that office, and that is Umuahia. It will not be in Isialangwa or Obingwa. So wait for our invitation,” he added.
Kalu further urged supporters across the state to converge in the capital when formally invited, promising to give a definitive response to the calls.
The event ended on a note of heightened political enthusiasm, with party leaders projecting increased grassroots support and strengthening dominance of the APC in the state.
Political observers say the growing calls for Kalu’s candidacy signal early alignments ahead of 2027, with Isiala Ngwa emerging as a key bloc in shaping the governorship race.
