The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that an independent opinion poll it conducted across Bende Federal Constituency shows overwhelming support for Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party used the poll results to criticise opposition candidates, accusing them of lacking credible experience and relying on unverified zoning claims.
APC Conducts Independent Opinion Poll in Bende
In a statement made exclusively available to Legit.ng on Monday, July 6, 2026, the APC’s Abia State spokesperson, Uche Aguoru, said the party had followed the debate surrounding Bende’s representation with keen interest. According to Aguoru, the independent poll revealed that the vast majority of Bende indigenes support Kalu, who is the incumbent Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and the APC candidate for the constituency.
The party criticised the opposition, particularly the ruling Labour Party, for what it described as “misleading arguments.” Aguoru stated: “Those pretending to contest against Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu have failed to present convincing records of knowledge or experience. Rather, all they rely on are unverified claims of zoning.”
APC Rejects Zoning Arguments
The APC emphasised that it has no constitutional policy or official guideline providing for the rotation or zoning of elective offices. Aguoru explained: “Our party is guided by the principles of competence, proven capacity, effective service delivery, integrity, and the ability to attract meaningful development to the people. These remain our benchmarks, not an unconfirmed zoning arrangement that exists only in the imagination of those who are evidently afraid of the overwhelming popularity and outstanding credentials of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.”
The party added that it would ordinarily have ignored the opposition’s arguments but decided to set the record straight for the benefit of the public.
APC Hails Kalu’s Legislative Leadership
Describing Kalu as “a nationally respected statesman, a global legislative brand, Africa’s best parliamentarian and one of Abia State’s greatest contributions to national leadership,” the APC said the Deputy Speaker has demonstrated exceptional leadership, legislative excellence, and an unmatched commitment to the development of Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, the Southeast, and Nigeria.
The statement concluded: “The people have made it clear that competence, experience, vision, verifiable achievements and effective representation remain their priorities. The House of Representatives is not a stage for entertainment or political experimentation. It is a serious legislative institution that demands intellectual capacity, legislative experience, sound judgment, and the ability to effectively advocate for the interests of the people.”
Background on Benjamin Kalu
Kalu has been serving as a principal officer in the House of Representatives since 2023, representing the Bende Federal Constituency. Earlier, the Abia APC celebrated Kalu on his birthday, commending his continued demonstration of exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to the growth of the party and the development of the nation.
