2027: Pressure Mounts as Deputy Speaker Kalu Inches Closer to Abia Governorship Race

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, may be edging closer to formally declaring his interest in the 2027 Abia State governorship election, amid growing pressure from political leaders and support groups across the state.

Leaders and stakeholders from Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency on Thursday joined a rising wave of calls urging Kalu to contest for the governorship, describing him as a unifying figure capable of repositioning the state.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, the mobilisation was described as part of a broader political movement within the Ngwa bloc, a key power base in Abia, where community leaders have openly endorsed him as their preferred candidate.

The endorsement came during the inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and the declaration of interest by Uzoma Ihuka to contest the Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at the event, Kalu expressed confidence in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, saying ongoing reforms at the federal level have helped to stabilise and strengthen the APC nationwide.

He argued that while other political parties continue to face internal challenges, the ruling party remains focused on delivering development and good governance.

According to him, current economic and governance reforms by the APC-led Federal Government present greater opportunities for states such as Abia.

Kalu also assured party members and supporters of inclusive leadership and a people-oriented approach, stressing that the APC remains committed to grassroots engagement and addressing community needs.

Responding to the mounting calls for him to join the governorship race, the Deputy Speaker acknowledged the growing support from across the state but said he would make his position known at the appropriate time.

“I am now in Isiala Ngwa, and they’re saying, come and run for governor. The same way I answered the people of Bende, the same way I answered the people of Obingwa, is the same way I will answer you,” he said.

“I have received your request for me to run for governor of Abia State, but I will respond in the coming days because I don’t want to do it local government by local government.

“I want to invite all of you to the capital… When we talk about governing Abia State, the constitution has designated Umuahia as the seat of power. So wait for our invitation. We are going to invite you in a few days.”

Kalu’s growing political profile comes amid increasing realignments in Abia politics and rising contestation between opposition forces and the incumbent administration of Governor Alex Otti.

In recent months, the Deputy Speaker has stepped up political engagements across the state, consolidating support in key areas including Bende, Obingwa, and the broader Ngwa axis.

His interventions on governance issues have also drawn attention, particularly his criticisms of certain state policies, which political observers say may signal early positioning ahead of 2027.

Meanwhile, Governor Otti has continued to defend his administration’s record, highlighting ongoing reforms and infrastructure projects aimed at economic recovery and development.

As political alignments begin to take shape, analysts say the 2027 governorship race in Abia is gradually emerging as a major contest between the incumbent’s camp and a resurgent opposition front, with Kalu’s anticipated declaration expected to further reshape the political landscape.