Mass Defections to APC Could Trigger Crises Ahead of 2027 — Kalu

Chief Emeka Charles Kalu, a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, President of the ECK Foundation, and aspirant for the Abia North Senatorial seat, has cautioned that the growing trend of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) may generate internal crises for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. In this wide-ranging interview, Dr. Kalu, a power engineer and Director-General of Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG), also spoke on the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council elections, opposition strategies, and governance in Abia State.

FCT Elections: APC Momentum, Not Permanent Dominance
Kalu noted that the APC’s recent victory in the FCT council elections reflects superior grassroots mobilisation and federal influence, rather than permanent political dominance. “While the PDP previously held sway in the FCT, politics is dynamic. Democracy thrives on competition, and the opposition must reorganise to regain lost ground,” he said.

Senatorial Ambition on Track
Asked about his bid for the Abia North Senatorial seat, Kalu affirmed that his ambition remains active. “I continue to confide in the people of my zone to ensure this vision succeeds. Democracy thrives with majority support, and I sincerely appreciate my constituents for their unalloyed backing,” he said.

He added that his platform would be that of Governor Alex Otti, emphasizing service-driven leadership. “Governor Otti has shown that leadership is about commitment to service, not personal enrichment. Under his platform, I am confident that representing my people in the Red Chamber by 2027 will be achieved.”

Strategy for Abia North Seat
Kalu described his approach as “people-driven, not party-driven.” He said, “I am consulting widely, building grassroots structures, and focusing on security, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and economic revival. My movement is about Abia North first, party later.”

Opposition Performance and Coalitions
Commenting on the African Democratic Congress’ (ADC) poor showing in the FCT elections, Kalu observed that “fragmentation, weak coordination, and limited grassroots penetration” were major factors. On whether opposition coalitions can challenge the APC in 2027, he said: “Coalitions take time to mature. If harmonised properly, they can mount a credible challenge. Nigerians are closely watching governance outcomes, and performance and credibility will matter most.”

APC Defections: A Brewing Storm?
On the massive defections to the APC, Kalu warned: “Mass defections may create internal contradictions. Congress disputes and primary battles could generate serious friction before 2027. Managing ambition will be their biggest test.”

Governor Otti’s Re-election Prospects
Kalu reaffirmed his support for Governor Otti, stating that sustained infrastructure renewal and fiscal discipline could secure him a second term, “regardless of APC influence.”

Abia International Airport Controversy
Addressing concerns over the Abia Airport City project, Kalu stressed the need for fair compensation and transparent engagement with host communities. “Development must not come at the expense of justice. Dialogue and lawful resettlement processes are key to peaceful resolution,” he said.

On Political Violence and Security
Kalu condemned the attack on Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate and ADC chieftain, in Benin City. “Any attack on opposition leaders is condemnable. Leaders must guarantee security for all citizens. Political intolerance weakens democracy,” he said.

Regarding the recent call by Ohanaeze Ndigbo for Southeasterners to arm themselves, Kalu urged caution: “While self-defence is a constitutional right, promoting arms rhetoric can escalate insecurity. Security is primarily the responsibility of the state.”

Executive Orders and the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)
On the use of Executive Orders by President Bola Tinubu to overturn parts of the PIA, Kalu expressed concern: “Frequent Executive Orders affecting the Petroleum Industry Act raise concerns about separation of powers. Major fiscal frameworks should respect legislative intent.”

Future Plans: Abia North Representation
Finally, Kalu confirmed that his vision for Abia North remains alive and service-driven. “Whether through Labour Party, ADC, or any credible coalition, the focus is effective representation. Leadership is about performance, and the people will ultimately decide,” he concluded.