2027: Group buys APC Governorship forms for Kalu

A group of political stakeholders has purchased the expression of interest and nomination forms of the All Progressives Congress for Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, urging him to contest the 2027 governorship election in Abia State.

The forms were presented to Kalu in Abuja on Saturday, with the delegation citing his legislative track record and leadership credentials as key reasons for drafting him into the race.

“We are here because we recognise the invaluable contributions the Deputy Speaker has made to Nigeria’s legislative process,” said James Uko-Kalu, who spoke on behalf of the group.

Uko-Kalu described Kalu as a unifying figure whose performance since 2019 has inspired confidence among constituents and political actors.

“Professionals and stakeholders alike are convinced that this is the right time for him to replicate that same spirit of statesmanship at the state level,” he added.

A retired military officer, Jack Nwaogbu, also commended Kalu’s role in rebuilding cohesion within the APC in Abia and the South-East, noting a resurgence in party unity after the 2023 elections.

Another stakeholder, Uzo Azubuike, described the delegation as representatives of a broader grassroots demand for Kalu to enter the governorship race.

He urged the Deputy Speaker to prioritise the ambition, arguing that his leadership could accelerate development in the state.

Kalu reacts

Responding, Mr Kalu thanked the group for the gesture and said he would consult widely before making a final decision.

“The purchase of this form is clearly a call for me to step forward… within the next one or two days, after due consultations, I will make my position known,” he said.

He also linked the potential ambition to the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasising the importance of strengthening subnational development.

Mr Kalu’s possible governorship bid has gained traction in recent months, with increasing calls from party stakeholders for him to contest.

Though he has yet to formally declare his intention, Saturday’s development marks the clearest sign yet of a coordinated effort to position him for the 2027 race.