A fresh wave of political momentum has emerged in Abia State as leaders and stakeholders from Isiala Ngwa North and Isiala Ngwa South have called on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, to contest the 2027 governorship election.
The endorsement was made during the inauguration of the Ikeoha Movement and the declaration of Chief Uzoma Ihuka’s interest to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Isiala Ngwa Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The event, held in Isiala Ngwa North, drew political stakeholders, party members, and defectors from opposition parties, particularly the Labour Party, who cited renewed confidence in the APC and its leadership direction.
Speaking at the gathering, Kalu commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a stabilising force that has strengthened the APC and promoted national unity. He said ongoing reforms at the federal level were already laying the foundation for broader development benefits across states, including Abia.
The Deputy Speaker noted that the APC remains more focused and stable than opposition parties, which he said are facing internal divisions. He added that the growing defections into the party reflected increasing public trust in its leadership.
New members were formally received into the APC during the event, with party leaders assuring them of inclusive governance and people-oriented representation aimed at improving livelihoods across communities in Abia State.
Responding to the growing calls for him to enter the 2027 governorship race, Kalu acknowledged widespread support from various parts of the state, including Bende, Obingwa, and Isiala Ngwa, but said he would make his position known at the appropriate time.
He stressed that any major political declaration regarding the governorship would be made in Umuahia, which he described as the constitutionally recognised centre for such decisions.
“I have received your request for me to run for governor of Abia State… I will respond in the coming days,” he said, adding that stakeholders from across the state would be formally invited for a statewide consultation.
Kalu further noted that discussions on leadership for the state must be inclusive and conducted at the appropriate state-level platform, rather than at individual local government gatherings.
The event also witnessed renewed pledges of support for APC candidates in upcoming elections, with participants expressing optimism about the party’s growing influence in Abia State.
The programme concluded with renewed calls for unity, stronger grassroots mobilisation, and continued political engagement across the state.
