By Our Correspondent

National News – Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State have endorsed the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for the 2027 governorship election, triggering internal opposition from another aspirant, Mascot Uzor Kalu.

The endorsement took place on Sunday in Umuahia during a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders from the three senatorial zones and 17 local government areas.

The decision, according to party stakeholders, is aimed at strengthening APC’s chances of winning the governorship election in 2027.

Leaders at the meeting urged Benjamin Kalu to officially declare his ambition, describing him as a capable candidate who can lead the party to victory.

Martins Azubuike, representing the South-East in the Federal Capital Civil Service, explained that the gathering sought to consolidate party unity and reflect grassroots opinions across Abia.

Responding to the endorsement, Kalu expressed gratitude but stopped short of confirming his candidacy.

He stated that he would announce his decision in the coming weeks, assuring supporters that his response would align with their expectations.

He also reiterated the party’s commitment to strengthening opposition politics in the state ahead of the election.

However, the move has stirred controversy within the party.

Mascot Uzor Kalu strongly rejected the endorsement, alleging that it was orchestrated without the involvement of all aspirants.

He warned that any attempt to impose a candidate would undermine party democracy and could lead to division.

In a statement, he described the endorsement as illegitimate and vowed that it would be resisted.

According to him, any consensus arrangement must involve all interested contenders to ensure fairness, transparency, and unity within the APC.

The development highlights growing tensions within the Abia APC as the 2027 governorship race approaches, raising concerns about internal cohesion and the party’s ability to present a united front.