Mascot Uzor Kalu withdrew from the Abia State governorship race on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, a day after being cleared by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest in the party’s primary scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026.

His withdrawal leaves former Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Henry Ikoh, and international businessman, Mr Eric Opah, as the remaining aspirants cleared to contest for the APC governorship ticket. Both aspirants hail from Abia Central Senatorial District.

The State APC Publicity Secretary, Comrade Uche Aguoru, confirmed the development, stating that Kalu communicated his decision through a letter dated May 20, addressed to the party chairman.

According to the letter, Mascot Kalu said his decision followed extensive consultations with family members, friends, and key stakeholders across the state.

He described the withdrawal as a difficult but necessary step taken in the interest of fairness, equity, and party unity in Abia State.

Kalu also noted that his decision was influenced by the emergence of his elder brother, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, as the APC senatorial candidate for Abia North in the 2027 general election, adding that his withdrawal would create room for other aspirants to contest the governorship ticket.

He further argued that Abia Central Senatorial District should be allowed to complete its eight-year power rotation in line with the state’s principles of equity and zoning.

Mascot reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and urged his supporters to remain committed to the party and its activities.

Reacting to the development, a party stakeholder, Mr Ikechukwu Nwoke, said the withdrawal would likely trigger further consultations and political realignments as the 2027 elections draw closer.