The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has extended an invitation to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). Kalu made the call during a town hall meeting and food distribution event at his country home in Bende, Abia State, on Monday. He emphasized that if Governor Otti were to defect to the APC, he would receive the full support of the party’s members in the state.

Kalu’s invitation was based on his assertion that if the governor truly supports President Bola Tinubu, he should openly declare his allegiance to the APC. The Deputy Speaker clarified that he has not yet declared his intention to run for the 2027 Abia State governorship election, stating that he is still in consultation and awaiting guidance from the national leadership of the APC.

In his address to party members, Kalu expressed his desire to see Governor Otti join the APC, emphasizing that the president’s support would be more forthcoming if the governor were a member of the party. He stated, “If you want to work for the President, join APC. The President will not leave APC and support non-APC members.”

Kalu also addressed the criticism he has faced on social media, alleging that hired agents have been recruited to insult him and misinterpret his empowerment programs as a precursor to a gubernatorial campaign. He emphasized that his focus is on establishing APC grassroots structures across Abia State, which would ultimately secure victory for President Tinubu and the party in future elections.

The Deputy Speaker’s comments come as the APC continues to consolidate its presence in Abia State. With the 2027 governorship election on the horizon, Kalu’s overtures to Governor Otti may be seen as an attempt to bolster the party’s chances of success. As the political landscape in Abia State continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Governor Otti will heed Kalu’s call to join the APC.