APC Condemns Alleged Smear Campaign Against Deputy Speaker Kalu Ahead of 2027 Elections
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as a coordinated and desperate smear campaign against Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu. This political maneuver is allegedly orchestrated by certain individuals and interests, with the APC specifically accusing Governor Alex Otti's administration of using taxpayer funds to sponsor media attacks aimed at tarnishing Kalu's reputation in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
Allegations of Irregularities in Kalu's Records Spark Controversy
The controversy began when a coalition led by the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance raised concerns about alleged irregularities in Benjamin Kalu's legal training and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) records. At a press conference in Abuja, Dominic Ogakwu, the coalition leader, claimed it was statutorily impossible for Kalu to have completed both the NYSC programme and the Nigerian Law School simultaneously. Ogakwu alleged that records show Kalu, then known as Benjamin Okezie Osisiogu, attended the Nigerian Law School between 2010 and 2011, while his NYSC discharge certificate was issued in March 2011, suggesting an overlap.
Ogakwu stated that only one of two scenarios could apply: either Kalu did not fully participate in the NYSC service year, or he never attended the Nigerian Law School to qualify for the Bar. The coalition has demanded clarity and accountability from Kalu himself, the NYSC, and the Council of Legal Education, and called for the deputy speaker to step aside pending any investigation.
APC Accuses Otti Government of Political Targeting
In response, Uche Aguoru, the APC spokesperson in Abia State, released a statement accusing Governor Alex Otti's administration of using public funds to sponsor a smear campaign against Kalu. The APC asserted that these actions appear driven by fear of Kalu's rising political stature and his growing acceptance across Abia State. The party described recent efforts as a wild goose chase, with coordinated media attacks and propaganda clearly aimed at damaging Kalu's reputation due to political apprehensions about his potential governorship candidacy.
The APC further alleged that meetings were held in Abuja involving officials of the Abia State government and a section of the media, where approximately N50 million was reportedly distributed to journalists to revive attacks on Kalu using issues that had already been resolved by competent national authorities. The party emphasized that the NYSC had issued a formal verification letter on May 23, 2023, affirming no discrepancy or wrongdoing in Kalu's records.
Political Motivations and Party Dynamics
The APC statement suggested that these sensational allegations are being championed by politically stranded actors who lack a viable political platform, having destroyed the party that once gave them relevance during the Peter Obi wave. These elements are allegedly afraid of losing the governorship should Kalu declare interest and are desperately attempting to re-enter the APC by first trying to discredit him.
Ironically, the APC noted that the party in Abia State has grown remarkably strong and attractive, an achievement attributed to the strategic leadership and political influence of Benjamin Kalu. The statement concluded by asserting that no amount of propaganda or sponsored journalism can diminish Kalu's reputation or erode the love and goodwill he enjoys among the people of Abia State.
This development highlights the intense political maneuvering and allegations of misconduct as the 2027 elections approach, with significant implications for the political landscape in Abia State and beyond.
