Coalition of political stakeholders and opinion leaders on Saturday formally presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination and expression of interest forms to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, urging him to join the Abia State governorship race.
The forms were formally presented to Kalu in Abuja by the stakeholders who disclosed that the decision was driven by Hon. Kalu’s track record in public service and leadership at the national level.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the group leader, James Uko-Kalu who hails from Abia North Senatorial District, described the Deputy Speaker as a unifying figure whose performance in the National Assembly has distinguished him as a capable leader.
According to him, Hon. Kalu’s journey since his election into the House of Representatives in 2019 has been marked by notable legislative contributions and effective representation, particularly in his role as spokesperson of the House and now as deputy speaker.
‘We are here because we recognise the invaluable contributions the Deputy Speaker has made to Nigeria’s legislative process, resulting in tangible developments. From 2019 till date, we have followed his work closely and can attest to his outstanding performance,’ he said.
He added that Hon. Kalu’s leadership style, which emphasises consensus-building, peace, and inclusiveness, is what Abia State currently needs.
‘I personally toured several communities across our constituency and witnessed first-hand the projects executed under his leadership. Professionals and stakeholders alike are convinced that this is the right time for him to replicate that same spirit of statesmanship at the state level,’ Igwe noted.
Also speaking, retired Major General Jack Nwaogbu from Abia Central Senatorial District commended Hon. Kalu for fostering unity within the APC in the state and across the South-East region.
He observed that the party, which previously suffered internal divisions that weakened its performance in the 2023 general elections, has witnessed significant revitalisation in recent months.
‘In the past seven months, there has been a remarkable rejuvenation of the party, largely due to the efforts of the Deputy Speaker and other well-meaning leaders who returned the party to its grassroots base,’ Okechukwu said.
He expressed confidence that Hon. Kalu’s ability to bring together diverse political interests positions him as the right candidate to lead Abia State and deliver good governance.
Similarly, Barrister Uzo Azubuike, representing Abia South Senatorial District, described the delegation as ‘messengers of the people,’ conveying a collective appeal for Hon. Kalu to contest the governorship.
Barrister Azubike urged the Deputy Speaker to prioritise the governorship ambition, stressing that his leadership offers the best opportunity for progress in the state.
Responding, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, expressed deep appreciation to the stakeholders for what he described as a demonstration of confidence in his leadership and service.
He assured that he would carefully consult with relevant political actors and well-wishers before making a definitive pronouncement on the request in the coming days.
Hon. Kalu commended the delegation for adopting dialogue and constructive engagement rather than resorting to protests or violence, noting that such an approach reflects a firm commitment to democratic ideals and responsible political participation.
He emphasised that, beyond individual ambitions, his immediate priority remains the strengthening of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-East, particularly in galvanising broad-based support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to him, building unity within the party and aligning the region more closely with the government at the centre are critical to unlocking greater development opportunities.
Reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, Hon. Kalu who pledged to support all aspirants within the party, stressing that collective success would depend on cohesion, discipline, and a shared vision, expressed optimism that the party is well-positioned to secure victory across Abia State in the next election cycle.
‘You believe that if I come on board, it is because I share in the vision of the Eight-Point Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and his commitment to true federalism, which empowers sub-national entities to drive meaningful development.
‘The purchase of this form is clearly a call for me to step forward. I have received it with gratitude, and within the next one or two days, after due consultations, I will make my position known.
‘I sincerely thank you for this gesture. Ultimately, the narrative of Abia must change, and we will continue to work collectively within the party to achieve that. The prospects of the APC in Abia will depend largely on the determination, unity, and commitment of its members,’ he said.