By Muhammad Mamman
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has revealed that he encouraged the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the governor as “one of us” whose alignment with the ruling party could unlock greater opportunities for the state.
Kalu made the disclosure while addressing party stakeholders, noting that his appeal was driven by a belief that Otti’s entry into the APC would strengthen Abia’s political leverage at the federal level and accelerate development.
According to the Deputy Speaker, Abia stands to benefit significantly from closer ties with the party at the centre, particularly in areas of infrastructure, economic growth and federal appointments. He argued that political cooperation often plays a critical role in attracting investments and fast-tracking key projects.
Kalu praised Governor Otti’s leadership style and reform agenda, saying his performance in office demonstrated shared values that align with the APC’s vision for governance and national development. He added that his outreach was motivated by a desire to see Abia maximise its potential through broader political collaboration.
While acknowledging that party affiliation remains a personal and strategic decision, Kalu stressed that his intervention was guided solely by the interests of Abia State and its people.
Governor Otti has not publicly responded to the remarks, but the comments have reignited debate over possible political realignments in Abia ahead of future electoral cycles. Political observers say any such move would have significant implications for the state’s political landscape and its relationship with the Federal Government.
