2027: Deputy SpeakerKalu rejects Abia APC's preferred candidates list

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

UMUAHIA – Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Kalu, has rejected reports that the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) possesses a secret list of preferred candidates for the 2027 general elections.

APC aspirants in the state have been experiencing tension after undergoing screening for the primary elections, amid rumors of a preferred‑candidates list for the 2027 polls.

In response to the alleged list, the Deputy Speaker affirmed that only the democratic processes outlined in the party’s constitution—direct primaries or consensual agreements—will determine the APC candidates in Abia.

Kalu said the speculation runs counter to the principles of participatory democracy and the constitutional provisions that guide the APC.

“It has been brought to my notice that there are speculations that a list of shortlisted candidates has been prepared to fly the flag of our party at the upcoming elections.”

“The premise of this alleged list is against the principles of participatory democracy.”

“Only two recognised democratic processes exist for the conduct of successful APC primaries across Nigeria — direct primaries and consensus arrangements agreed upon voluntarily by aspirants,” the deputy speaker added.

He explained that, in accordance with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, aspirants must either mobilise grassroots support to win a direct primary or engage in consultations that can produce a consensus candidate.

Kalu further urged APC members in the state to disregard rumours about a secret list for House of Assembly, National Assembly, and governorship primaries.

“Members of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State are advised to ignore any assumption or suspicion regarding the existence of any kind of list from any quarters.”

“If such a list exists anywhere, it is by this announcement, rendered null and void.”

He noted that the people‑oriented spirit that characterised the APC congresses in Abia will also shape the conduct of the upcoming primaries.

“The spirit of how we conducted our congresses, which was centred around our people, is still alive, and the conduct of our primaries will not be different.”

Kalu called on party members to stay united and concentrate on strengthening the APC ahead of future electoral contests in the state.

“Dear members of the APC family in Abia State, we have work to do. Let us keep tilling the ground as we have been doing and prepare our party for massive electoral victories across contests next year.”

“It starts now, and we will remain together no matter the antics of disruptors. You have the support of the leadership of the party at all levels. With you, we built a strong and formidable party; with you, we will sustain it.”

“We have confidence in the unity and electoral prospects of the APC in Abia State ahead of the 2027 general elections.”

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