"Abia Will Fall to APC in 2027" - Benjamin Kalu Boasts, Says Tinubu Will Reward South-East with Seaport

In what appears to be the boldest political declaration yet from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has declared that the ruling Labour Party government in Abia will be "taken over by the APC" in 2027.

Benjamin Kalu made the statement on Sunday while addressing a large crowd of supporters and APC faithful at Abia Hotels, Umuahia, in what many observers now describe as the official start of the party's mobilization campaign for 2027.

According to the Deputy Speaker, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to transforming the South-East through key infrastructural projects, including the establishment of a seaport in the region, a project he said would revolutionize trade and commerce for Igbo people.

"The President understands that the South-East is a trading region, and he is determined to bring a seaport closer to our people," Kalu said.

He argued that for Abia to enjoy the full benefits of national development, it must align with the "mainstream politics" at the federal level, warning that staying in opposition could limit the state's progress.

"The time has come for Abia to be integrated into mainstream politics so we can benefit more from the centre," Kalu told the cheering crowd.

Benjamin Kalu insisted that the gathering was not motivated by money but by passion for progress and loyalty to the President.

"When they see us gather, they think it's about money - it's not. This is organic support, driven by love for the President and hope for what is coming in 2027," he declared.

The Deputy Speaker, who hails from Bende Local Government Area of Abia North, emphasized that the APC has started early preparations to reclaim Abia from Labour Party in the next election cycle.

Political watchers believe Kalu's remarks signal a strategic push by the APC to challenge the popularity of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, whose administration has received widespread commendation for its performance in less than two years.

The declaration has since sparked reactions across Abia's political landscape, with some describing Kalu's statement as "wishful thinking," while others view it as the beginning of a fierce political battle ahead of 2027.