Reps Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu Invites Governor Alex Otti to APC, Speaks on Abia Governorship Speculation

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, has clarified that he has not officially declared any intention to contest the governorship position in Abia State. At the same time, he openly extended an invitation to the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, urging him to formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ben Kalu made this known on Monday while addressing attendees at his country home in Bende, located within Bende Local Government Area of Abia State. The occasion marked the 2025 Renewed Town Hall Meeting and Christmas Food Distribution, an annual engagement aimed at strengthening grassroots interaction and community support.

According to the Deputy Speaker, recent public interpretations of his political activities have been misconstrued as signs of a governorship ambition, a narrative he firmly dismissed. He explained that virtually every action he takes is being framed by political observers as a calculated move toward contesting for the state’s top seat.

In a strongly worded but humorous response, Kalu expressed frustration over what he described as constant political speculation, stating that even his everyday actions are exaggerated into governorship signals.

He remarked that when he makes simple personal or official decisions—such as changing his appearance, greeting people, visiting individuals, or carrying out responsibilities assigned by the President—each act is quickly labeled as a governorship move. He questioned why similar scrutiny is not applied to others who have already openly declared their interest in the Abia governorship race.

Ben Kalu further pointed out that despite not making any formal declaration, he continues to face intense criticism and attacks, especially on social media platforms. He described these attacks as politically motivated, adding that he remains focused on his duties rather than engaging in online confrontations.

The Deputy Speaker emphasized that social media has no law enforcement authority, warning that while insults may circulate freely online, accountability eventually catches up. Drawing from past experience, he recalled how similar online criticism trailed his campaign during his bid for the House of Representatives. At that time, despite widespread negative projections against him, the final outcome favored his victory.

Reflecting on the possibility of a future governorship race, Kalu noted that if he eventually decides to contest, it would not be an easy or slow contest but rather a swift and highly competitive political battle. However, he stressed that such a decision would only come after consultations within the APC, careful observation of party leadership direction, and guidance from the party’s national hierarchy.

He concluded by stating that he remains in active discussions with party leaders and stakeholders and is patiently waiting for the appropriate signal before making any major political move.