Benjamin Kalu Endorsement Denial: Party Insists Deputy Speaker Remains Loyal.
Abia APC accuses governor’s media team of spreading “misleading and malicious propaganda” ahead of 2027 elections.
UMUAHIA, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | Benjamin Kalu endorsement denial has sparked fresh political tension in Abia State after the All Progressives Congress (APC) https://apc.com.ng dismissed reports claiming that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives endorsed Governor Alex Otti for a second term.
The Abia APC described the alleged endorsement as “misleading, malicious and deceptive propaganda,” insisting that Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu remains firmly committed to the party’s objective of reclaiming Government House in 2027.
In this report, we examine the key developments, reactions from stakeholders, and the broader implications.
Background of the Story
Political activities in Abia State have intensified as early alignments and strategic positioning for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape.
Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party has faced mounting political scrutiny amid opposition efforts to consolidate ahead of the next election cycle. Within this context, reports surfaced alleging that Benjamin Kalu, a senior APC figure and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, had endorsed Otti for a second term.
The claim quickly gained traction across media platforms, triggering confusion within political circles and among party supporters.
Key Developments
In a statement issued on Friday, the Abia State APC, through its Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, categorically denied the reports.
The party said the narrative was being circulated by Governor Otti’s media team and aimed at misleading the public.
“The attention of the APC in Abia State has been drawn to a misleading, malicious, and deceptive propaganda being circulated across various media platforms by Governor Alex Otti’s media team,” the statement read.
Addressing the Benjamin Kalu endorsement denial, the party stressed that the Deputy Speaker had neither publicly nor privately endorsed the governor for a second term.
“For the benefit of unsuspecting members of the public who may be misled by these desperate falsehoods, we wish to categorically state that Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has never, at any time, either publicly or privately, endorsed Governor Alex Otti for a second term in office,” the APC said.
The party reaffirmed Kalu’s standing within its ranks, describing him as a loyal and committed leader of the APC structure in Abia State.
Reactions from Stakeholders
The APC used the opportunity to reiterate its political ambition ahead of 2027, declaring that Kalu remains focused on strengthening the party’s electoral prospects.
“On the contrary, the Deputy Speaker has remained resolute and fully committed to the mission of ensuring that the All Progressives Congress wins all elective positions in Abia State and takes over Government House, Umuahia, come May 29, 2027,” the statement added.
The party also accused the current Labour Party-led administration of relying on propaganda and misinformation to weaken opposition unity.
It further claimed that many residents of the state were dissatisfied with what it described as mismanagement across critical sectors of governance.
Implications
The Benjamin Kalu endorsement denial underscores the high stakes ahead of the 2027 elections in Abia State.
Political analysts say any perception of cross-party endorsement from a senior APC leader could significantly alter political calculations in the state.
By swiftly issuing a rebuttal, the APC appears keen to maintain party cohesion and prevent any narrative that could suggest internal division or soft support for the incumbent governor.
The development also reflects the increasingly strategic use of media narratives in shaping public perception long before formal campaign activities begin.
What Happens Next
As political maneuvering intensifies, observers expect further clarifications, alliances, and counter-statements from both camps.
The APC has urged its supporters to remain united, emphasizing that its objective remains the unseating of the Labour Party administration in 2027.
“We urge Abians to remain steadfast, united, and committed in their support for the APC as the party continues in its quest to offer a credible alternative and a better future for the people of Abia State,” the statement concluded.
Conclusion
The unfolding Benjamin Kalu endorsement denial highlights the early political chess game already underway in Abia State.
With 2027 still on the horizon, narratives, alliances, and public positioning are beginning to define the battlefield. As always, The iNews Times will continue to monitor developments, providing clarity amid competing political claims.
