Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Invites Abia Governor Alex Otti to Join APC, Rejects Claims of 2027 Governorship Ambition
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has publicly extended an invitation to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing that the ruling party’s doors are open to him ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kalu made the appeal on Monday during a town hall meeting and Christmas food distribution event held in his hometown in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area. While fielding swirling speculation online about his political intentions, the deputy speaker denied that he has declared a bid for the 2027 Abia governorship, saying rumours linking his activities to a governorship campaign are unfounded.
“I want to use this opportunity again to invite Governor Alex Otti to join our party,” Kalu said, stressing that Otti’s joining the APC would be welcomed with support. “If he comes to our party, we will support him.”
Kalu also sought to clarify his own political position, asserting that any decision on his future aspirations would be taken in consultation with APC leadership. He challenged ongoing speculation about his intentions, dismissing internet chatter about a planned governorship bid as misinterpretations of routine engagements.
While urging unity within the APC and backing for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Kalu reiterated that those committed to furthering the party’s objectives should formally align with it rather than remain in other political formations.