In a bold political move ahead of the 2027 general elections, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has extended a public invitation to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to defect from the Labour Party and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The invitation was made on Monday, December 29, 2025, during Kalu's annual Renewed Town Hall Meeting and Christmas Food Distribution event held in his country home in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
Kalu Denies Governorship Ambition Declaration
Benjamin Kalu addressed speculation that his actions and statements were an early declaration of interest in the Abia State governorship race in 2027. He clarified that his gesture was being misconstrued as a declaration of a governorship ambition.
The deputy speaker revealed that he has faced significant attacks on social media platforms as a result of this misinterpretation. He recalled being similarly underestimated on social media during his campaign for his current office.
Kalu expressed confidence in his electoral prospects, stating he would win if he decided to run, but emphasized he is still consulting with party leaders at the national level regarding his political future.
Public Invitation to Governor Otti
Seizing the opportunity at the town hall meeting, Kalu made a direct appeal to Governor Otti. His statement read in part: “I want to use this opportunity again to invite Governor Alex Otti to join our party. I want to use this opportunity again, publicly, to invite him to come to our party.”
This invitation adds to the growing political realignment discussions as the country gradually approaches the next election cycle. Governor Otti, elected under the Labour Party platform, has been seen as a significant figure in the South-East political landscape.
Kalu Highlights Legislative Achievements
In a related social media statement, Benjamin Kalu detailed his accomplishments as a federal lawmaker, seeking to underscore his performance and service delivery.
He disclosed that he has sponsored 127 bills in the National Assembly, covering critical sectors including security, infrastructure, governance, and economic reforms.
Beyond legislation, Kalu listed numerous constituency projects facilitated under his representation:
- Construction of schools and ICT centres
- Development of health facilities and roads
- Water projects and restoration of electricity
- Agricultural support programs
- Employment facilitation, scholarships, and skills training
- Grants to thousands of beneficiaries
He asserted that no ward, village, or community in his constituency was being left behind in these development initiatives.
Governor Otti's Political Future
This public invitation comes against the backdrop of Governor Alex Otti's repeated statements about his political future. Legit.ng had earlier reported that the Abia State governor has reiterated his long-time position to quit active politics immediately after completing his tenure.
Otti made this clarification on Friday, December 19, while reacting to allegations that his visit to detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre was motivated by presidential ambition. The governor stated he visited Kanu simply because the detainee is from his state.
The deputy speaker's invitation and Governor Otti's stated intention to retire from politics set the stage for an intriguing political dynamic in Abia State as the 2027 elections draw nearer.
Kalu concluded his town hall address by commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing reforms aimed at stabilizing Nigeria's economy and improving citizen welfare, framing his invitation within the broader context of the ruling party's national agenda.
