Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has indicated that he will soon make public his decision on whether to contest the Abia State governorship election in 2027, following mounting calls from supporters and stakeholders across the state.

Kalu made this known at a gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders and supporters in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, where he was formally endorsed by party faithful drawn from Abia South, Abia Central, and Abia North senatorial districts.

The stakeholders expressed confidence in his leadership capacity, urging him to contest and “rescue” the state through inclusive governance and balanced development.

Responding, Kalu acknowledged the growing pressure on him to join the race, revealing that similar appeals had come from all 17 local government areas of the state.

He, however, stopped short of making an outright declaration, assuring supporters that his position would be announced in the coming weeks.

“On your request for me to contest for governor, I have received the same request from several local governments. My response will be made available in a few weeks’ time,” he said.

“I want to thank you for finding me worthy. I will respond in the open, where everyone will hear. When that response comes, you will be happy.”

He also urged party members to remain united and mobilize support across all levels, noting that when he makes his announcement, it will involve a broader political engagement, including aspirants for legislative positions.

Kalu further stressed that the APC’s immediate priority remains the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

He called on party supporters to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda and work collectively to secure another mandate for the president.

“The number one agenda is to ensure that the mandate of the President is renewed in 2027,” he added.

Several stakeholders at the meeting reiterated their support for Kalu, describing him as a capable leader with the vision to transform Abia State’s fortunes if elected governor.