Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has dismissed speculations that a list of shortlisted candidates has been prepared to represent the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. In a statement sent to Legit.ng on Tuesday, May 12, the federal lawmaker explained that such a list contradicts the principles of participatory democracy.
Two APC Approaches to Primaries
Kalu outlined two approaches to successful APC primaries across the country, which align with the Electoral Act and the party's constitution. The first is direct primaries, where aspirants canvass for votes at the grassroots level to secure the party ticket. The second is through consensus, which involves deliberation among stakeholders to achieve a consensus candidate.
This clarification comes days after Kalu visited Kaduna to support Speaker Tajudeen Abbas's re-election campaign in Zaria. Reports suggest that Kalu has stepped down from his governorship ambition in Abia for the 2027 election, choosing instead to return to the National Assembly.
Support for Speaker Abbas
Speaking about his outing with Abbas, Kalu tweeted: "Today, I had the honour of standing alongside my principal and friend, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, GCON, as he formally declared his intention to seek re-election to continue representing the people of Zaria Federal Constituency, Kaduna State."
He added: "In a beautiful display of solidarity and support, the people of Zaria turned out in full force, confident and united behind our great party, the APC. Addressing the gathering, I urged them to once again entrust the Speaker with their mandate, so he can continue and complete the transformational work he has so ably begun."
Kalu praised Abbas for leading the 10th House of Representatives with distinction and vision, describing him as a voice for the Nigerian people. He expressed anticipation for the landmark achievements of the 11th National Assembly under Abbas's continued leadership.
APC Governor Criticises Opposition Leaders
In related news, APC Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State criticised opposition leaders, claiming they have failed Nigerians. Speaking about the 2027 general elections in an interview on Thursday, April 30, the governor asserted that President Bola Tinubu's achievements have secured his second term bid.
