Abia State: I'm Not Running for Governor in 2027, Says Rep Deputy Speaker, Kalu
The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has firmly denied reports claiming he has declared his intention to contest the Abia State governorship election in 2027.
In a press release issued and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the office described the circulating story attributed to an outlet called "Native Reporters" as "baseless, unfounded, and lacks credibility."
"The Deputy Speaker has not made any declaration, either privately or publicly, to contest for the governorship of Abia State in 2027," the statement read.
It emphasized that Kalu remains committed to fulfilling his current four-year mandate representing Bende Federal Constituency and serving Nigerians with dedication.
The release urged the purported news platform to retract the report and adhere to journalistic standards of truth and accuracy. It also cautioned against the spread of misinformation, advising media outlets to verify information before publication.
"The political family of the Deputy Speaker will announce his plans and intentions at the appropriate time," it added.
This denial comes amid ongoing political speculation in Abia State, where Kalu has previously expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would take control of the state in 2027, though he has not personally confirmed any gubernatorial ambition. Recent social media posts have featured alleged quotes from Kalu about "cleaning the tears of Abia people" in 2027, fueling rumors that the denied report may stem from.
