The All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in Abia State has strongly denounced the alleged interruption of an address by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu. The incident, which occurred during a community gathering in Item, located within the Bende Local Government Area, saw individuals reportedly chanting the name of opposition figure Peter Obi while Kalu was speaking. The party has labelled this act as a deliberate attempt to undermine Kalu's political standing and to embarrass President Bola Tinubu.
Details of the incident were conveyed in a statement issued on 8th November 2026, by Uche Aguoru, the Publicity Secretary for the APC in Abia State. According to the statement, the disruption unfolded during a function hosted by the local community of Item, which Kalu was attending. The APC asserted that certain individuals deliberately interfered with Kalu’s address, viewing this action as a calculated effort to discredit him and bring disrepute to President Tinubu.
Aguoru disclosed that the party had previously received intelligence suggesting that efforts might be made to embarrass both Kalu and the President at public events. However, these reports were initially dismissed by the party, which believed that the strong affection held by citizens of Abia State for both leaders would render such a plan unfeasible.
APC Defends Kalu's Contributions And Warns Against Disruptions
The APC has vigorously defended Benjamin Kalu's track record, highlighting his role as the Deputy Director-General II (South) of the APC Presidential Campaign Council. The party noted Kalu’s consistent efforts in promoting President Tinubu's 'Renewed Hope Agenda' across Abia State, specifically mentioning his engagements in Aba and Item. These initiatives, the party claims, have been well-received by the populace.
The party further argued that President Tinubu has garnered the appreciation of Abians through various federal infrastructure projects, key appointments, and employment opportunities within the state, all of which are credited to Kalu's proactive advocacy. The APC emphasised that the relationship between the President and the Deputy Speaker remains robust and unshakeable.
Aguoru issued a strong caution against any further disruptions, urging those responsible to cease such activities and instead embrace democratic engagement, tolerance, and responsible political participation. The party's message underscores a call for civility and adherence to established political norms.
APC Projects Decisive Victory In 2027 Elections
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the APC expressed unwavering confidence that the increasing acceptance of the party within Abia State and the broader South-East region will culminate in significant electoral success. According to the statement, the party anticipates that President Tinubu will secure 85 per cent of the votes cast in Abia State during the presidential election scheduled for 16th January 2027. Furthermore, it predicted a landslide victory for Kalu in the Bende federal constituency seat.
The APC also projected wins across all three senatorial districts, the eight House of Representatives seats, and the 24 State House of Assembly constituencies. The party concluded its optimistic forecast by stating its expectation that Dr Eric Opah would be inaugurated as the Governor of Abia State on 29th May 2027.
In related news, the APC had previously urged its supporters to disregard recent online opinion polls concerning the 2027 elections. The party acknowledged the role of such polls in the democratic process but described them as "largely elitist exercises that do not necessarily reflect realities at the grassroots." This stance indicates the APC's focus on ground-level mobilisation over digital sentiments.