2027: Abia APC stakeholders endorse Benjamin Kalu, Aspirant rejects move

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State have endorsed Benjamin Kalu for the 2027 governorship race, a move opposed by fellow aspirant Mascot Uzor Kalu.

The endorsement was announced on Sunday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia, attended by party members from the three senatorial zones and all 17 local government areas of the state.

Party leaders at the meeting urged Mr Kalu, who currently serves as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, to declare his ambition, describing him as a strong candidate capable of securing victory for the party.

Speaking at the event, Martins Azubuike said the meeting aimed to consolidate gains from recent party activities and reflect the views of grassroots members.

“We are here to take voices from Abians through the delegation of 17 LGAs as representatives of the wards,” he said.

Kalu’s response

In his remarks, Mr Kalu appreciated the endorsement but stopped short of making an immediate declaration.

“My response is going to be made available in a few weeks. I want to thank you for finding me worthy of this position,” he said, adding that party members would be pleased with his eventual decision.

He also expressed confidence in the party’s chances in 2027, noting that it would strengthen its opposition role in the state ahead of the elections.

Opposition from aspirant

However, the endorsement drew sharp criticism from Mr Mascot Kalu, who warned against what he described as an attempt to impose a candidate on the party.

In a statement, he argued that any consensus arrangement that excludes other aspirants is illegitimate.

“Any premeditated consensus arrangement… without the participation of all aspirants… is unacceptable and null and void,” he said, vowing to resist such moves.

Internal tensions

The disagreement highlights emerging tensions within the Abia APC as the party begins early positioning for the 2027 governorship election.

Analysts say such divisions, if unresolved, could affect party unity and electoral prospects.

The development signals the start of political realignments within Abia APC, with potential implications for candidate selection, party cohesion, and competitiveness ahead of the 2027 polls.