The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, is facing increasing calls to declare his intention to contest the Abia State governorship election in 2027, following fresh endorsements from political stakeholders across the state.
Leaders from Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency on Thursday threw their weight behind Kalu, urging him to join the race.
They described him as a unifying figure with the vision and capacity to reposition Abia State for growth and development.
The endorsement, according to a statement by his Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, is part of a broader mobilisation within the Ngwa political bloc, one of the state’s influential power bases.
Community leaders in the area have reportedly adopted Kalu as their preferred candidate.
The show of support came during the inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and the formal declaration of Uzoma Ihuka to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Addressing party members at the event, Kalu expressed confidence in the leadership of Bola Tinubu, noting that the current administration has helped stabilise and strengthen the APC nationwide.
He maintained that while opposition parties continue to grapple with internal challenges, the APC remains focused on governance and development.
According to him, ongoing reforms by the Federal Government present new opportunities that Abia State can benefit from.
Kalu also assured party faithful of inclusive leadership and a people-centred approach, emphasising the party’s commitment to engaging communities and addressing their needs.
Responding to the growing calls for him to contest, the Deputy Speaker acknowledged the support but stopped short of making a formal declaration.
He said he would make his position known at the appropriate time.
“I have heard your request,” he said, “but I will respond at the right time. I want it to be a collective call from across the state.”
He further stressed that any such declaration would be made in Umuahia, the state capital, in line with constitutional symbolism and the significance of the governorship office.
Kalu’s rising political profile comes amid increasing engagement with the current administration led by Governor Alex Otti.
In recent months, he has been vocal on governance issues, particularly on infrastructure, economic development, and inclusiveness.
Political observers believe his growing grassroots presence across key areas such as Bende, Obingwa, and the Ngwa axis signals early positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, Governor Otti has continued to defend his administration’s performance, highlighting ongoing reforms and developmental projects aimed at improving the state’s economy and infrastructure.
