Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu invites Abia Governor Alex Otti to join APC, promising support for his second term, and launches N1bn empowerment initiative
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Benjamin Kalu, has urged Abia State Governor Alex Otti to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), promising to support his second-term bid if he accepts.
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Kalu made the appeal in his hometown of Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area, during his annual Christmas Food Distribution and Town Hall meeting on Monday.
He described the APC as open to leaders willing to strengthen the party and advance its political objectives in Abia.
Addressing rumours about his possible governorship contest in 2027, Kalu said he has not declared any intention to run.
He added that consultations within the party were ongoing, and he awaited guidance from APC leadership.
The Deputy Speaker also announced a N1 billion empowerment initiative to support 2,000 small and medium-scale businesses across Abia.
Each beneficiary is set to receive an initial N500,000, with partnerships planned with the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, and SMEDAN.
Forms are available at the Renewed Hope Office on Ojike Street, Umuahia, with submission within 30 days.
Kalu emphasised grassroots mobilisation and urged citizens to support President Bola Tinubu, the APC, and its Renewed Hope Agenda.
He recalled that his rice distribution initiative began in 2003 as a humanitarian effort, long before holding public office.
Chief Chris Nkwonta, representing Ukwa East and Ukwa West Federal Constituency, praised Kalu for delivering 58 projects in less than three years, sponsoring over 100 bills—more than 20 of which were assented to by the President—and for his integrity and effective representation.
APC Chairman in Abia, Mr Kingsley Ononogbu, also commended Kalu for his leadership and vision, noting progress under the Tinubu administration, including stable fuel supply, lower food prices, and improving exchange rates.
Other party leaders reaffirmed their commitment to APC, confident in the party’s ability to deliver victory in future elections.
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The event saw the distribution of bags of rice and cash gifts to more than 3,500 residents from all 17 local government areas in Abia, reinforcing Kalu’s people-centered approach to leadership.
(NAN)
