Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has formally withdrawn his earlier call for Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that the moment for such political alignment has passed.
Kalu, who represents the Bende Federal Constituency, explained that his initial invitation to Governor Otti was driven by what he described as selfless intentions aimed at strengthening political cooperation and unlocking greater federal opportunities for Abia State. According to him, the move was never meant to pressure the governor or restrict his political choices.
Governor Otti, who was elected in 2023 on the platform of the Labour Party, has consistently rejected calls to join the APC and has publicly reaffirmed his loyalty to his party. His stance, Kalu noted, has now brought the conversation to a close.
Speaking on the matter, the Deputy Speaker emphasized that he has no intention of obstructing Governor Otti’s administration or political ambitions. Instead, he said the APC is now focused on building its own strength in Abia State as part of its broader strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kalu also highlighted his personal contributions to Abia’s development, citing his role in facilitating over ₦10 billion in federal funding for road infrastructure projects, regardless of party lines. He stressed that his commitment to the state remains firm, independent of political affiliations.
“The time I wanted Governor Alex Otti to join APC has passed; I’m no longer asking him. I encouraged him to join because he was one of us, and I believed his entry would open more doors for Abia State,” Kalu said.
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With the withdrawal of the invitation, both political leaders appear set to pursue their separate paths as Abia’s political landscape continues to evolve ahead of future elections.