In a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, key leaders from Abia State have declared their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This commitment was solidified during a series of New Year engagements with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
Strategic Engagements and Assurances of Support
The meetings, framed as New Year courtesy visits, saw Deputy Speaker Kalu receive firm assurances from prominent political figures in the state. Among them was Senator Chris Adighije, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Umuahia South Local Government Area. Senator Adighije expressed gratitude for Kalu's visit and conveyed the readiness of the entire Olokoro Umuahia clan—a collective of 17 autonomous communities—to back national development initiatives and the policies of the Tinubu administration.
He stressed the critical need to learn from past electoral choices and to make decisions that would amplify the region's political influence. In his address to the gathered community and political leaders, Benjamin Kalu emphasized the importance of strategic voting. "We should invest our votes wisely to ensure that our communities benefit. Strategic engagement now will position us for long-term gains," Kalu stated.
Unifying Efforts and Legislative Achievements Highlighted
In a separate meeting, Kalu engaged with former Abia State House of Assembly member, Hon. Chukwudi Apugo. Apugo commended the Deputy Speaker's legislative record, particularly highlighting his pivotal role in the passage of the South East Development Commission Bill. This legislation led to the establishment of the Commission, a body dedicated to fostering development in the region.
Apugo praised Kalu's inclusive approach to politics, which involves both experienced and emerging leaders, describing him as a unifying force in Abia's political scene. During their discussion, Kalu formally invited Apugo to join the APC, underscoring the necessity of collaboration and broad-based participation to strengthen the party's foundation in the state.
Building Unity for Tangible Benefits
The core message from Deputy Speaker Kalu centered on unity and active political engagement as prerequisites for translating representation into real benefits for the people of Abia State and the wider South East. "We are inviting leaders who share our vision to join us in promoting policies that benefit our communities and strengthen governance in the region," Kalu affirmed.
The series of visits reflect a concerted effort to boost political participation, foster stakeholder unity, and encourage citizens to be deliberate in their electoral decisions as the 2027 polls draw nearer. The leaders involved reiterated the importance of informed decision-making that prioritizes community development and effective representation above all else.
