In a significant political move, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has extended a public invitation to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to abandon the Labour Party and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Public Appeal at Christmas Town Hall
Kalu made the direct appeal on Monday, December 30, 2025, during an annual Christmas Food Distribution and Town Hall Meeting held in his country home in Agbamuzu, located within the Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
"Let me tell you, I want to use this opportunity again, publicly, to invite Governor Alex Otti to join our party," Kalu declared. He assured the governor of robust backing, stating, "If he comes to our party, we will support him."
He emphasised that the APC's doors remain wide open for leaders who are ready to collaborate in strengthening the party and advancing its political goals within Abia State.
Empowerment and Political Positioning
Beyond the political invitation, the Deputy Speaker announced a major economic intervention. He launched a N1 billion fund aimed at supporting 2,000 small and medium-scale businesses across all local government areas in Abia.
Under this scheme, each beneficiary is set to receive an initial sum of about N500,000. Kalu revealed that agencies like the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) are expected to partner to expand the programme's reach.
Interested applicants can obtain forms at the Renewed Hope Office on Ojike Street, Umuahia, and must submit them within a 30-day window.
Defence of Record and Future Ambitions
Addressing the gathering, Kalu reflected on his service, noting that the rice distribution initiative began as a humanitarian effort in 2003, long before he held any public office. He expressed disappointment that the programme, after 23 years, is now being politicised.
The Deputy Speaker also dismissed social media attacks and rumours concerning his political future. He recalled that similar predictions were made before his election to the House of Representatives, which he won decisively.
Kalu clarified that he has not declared any intention to contest the governorship and is currently involved in consultations within the APC, awaiting direction from the party's leadership.
APC Leaders Express Confidence
The event was attended by other prominent APC figures in the state who echoed sentiments of a strong party presence. The lawmaker representing Ukwa East and Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Chief Chris Nkwonta, praised Kalu's performance, noting he had delivered 58 projects as Deputy Speaker and sponsored over 100 bills.
Nkwonta made a bold declaration about the party's prospects in Abia: "Abia will deliver 100 per cent of the votes to APC. There is no need for alliances. Abia is APC, and APC is Abia."
In his address, the Abia State APC Chairman, Mr Kingsley Ononogbu, commended Kalu for his integrity and grassroots leadership. He also expressed confidence in the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, citing stable fuel supply, reduced food prices, and an improved exchange rate as indicators of progress.
Kalu concluded by urging Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu and the APC's Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that the administration is focused on building a lasting legacy for future generations.
