LIFESTYLE Culture

Abia Stakeholders Purchase APC Form for Deputy Speaker Kalu

by admin on | 2026-05-03 17:06:36

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By Ahmad Sirajo Makama, Abuja

Ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Abia State, representatives from the three senatorial districts have purchased the All Progressives Congress governorship form for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, to contest.

The forms were formally presented to Kalu in Abuja by the group, which said its decision was driven by his track record in public service and leadership at the national level.

The group noted that its decision was based on the Deputy Speaker’s political achievements in the House of Representatives and his role in uniting the APC in Abia State.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the group leader, James Uko-Kalu, SAN, 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, 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 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,” he said.

Also speaking, retired Major General Jack Nwaogbu from Abia Central Senatorial District commended 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,” he said.

He expressed confidence that 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 Kalu to contest the governorship.

Azubuike 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, Benjamin Kalu, expressed deep appreciation to the stakeholders for what he described as a demonstration of confidence in his leadership and service.

He assured them that he would carefully consult with relevant political actors and well-wishers before making a definitive pronouncement in the coming days.

Kalu commended the delegation for adopting dialogue and constructive engagement rather than protests or violence, noting that such an approach reflects a strong commitment to democratic ideals and responsible political participation.

He emphasised that, beyond individual ambitions, his immediate priority remains strengthening the APC in the South-East, particularly in mobilising 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, Kalu pledged to support all aspirants within the party, stressing that collective success would depend on cohesion, discipline, and a shared vision.

“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.

He assured them that the story must change in Abia State through collective efforts within the APC.