Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has firmly stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC), his political party, will select the next governor of Abia State. Kalu, aged 53, previously served as the spokesperson for the House of Representatives and currently represents Bende Federal
Constituency under the APC banner.
At present, the governor of Abia State is Alex Otti, who assumed office under the Labour Party. Otti, a former bank executive, is noted for his role in the state’s leadership. However, Kalu believes that this will be the final term for a governor from the Labour Party in Abia State. He expressed his views strongly, asserting that the APC will be the party to produce the next governor.
In a recent interview, Kalu made his position clear, “This will be the last time a Labour governor will govern Abia State. I am confident that the next governor will be from the APC.” He went on to explain that although he has a friendly relationship with Governor Otti and they work together on various matters, he firmly believes that the leadership of Abia State should transition to the APC.
Kalu emphasized that he has communicated his stance to Governor Otti both publicly and privately. He said, “We are friends and collaborate, but I cannot accept that while I am the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, another party should govern my state. I am confident that in the 2027 elections, the APC will prevail.”
He expressed strong confidence in the APC’s ability to govern Abia State, citing the party’s efforts and the support from the federal government. “The APC government is working diligently, and the President is also committed to supporting development in the South East. The President’s initiatives, such as the South East Development Commission and appointing Abians to significant positions, are signs of progress. We will not be ungrateful for these efforts. We believe that the APC should receive recognition for its work,” Kalu stated.
Kalu further added that while Governor Otti has performed commendably compared to other state governors, he believes Abia State would benefit more under the APC’s leadership. “Although Governor Otti has done well, the APC should lead Abia State,” Kalu insisted. He underscored the necessity for the APC to harness its influence at the federal level to drive more significant development in Abia State.
Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to working for Abia State and expressed frustration at being on the outside of the central government’s decision-making. He is determined to leverage the power of the APC to enhance the state’s development and improve its governance.
