Bende, Abia State: Abia State — Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress have endorsed President Bola Tinubu as the party’s sole 2027 presidential candidate and unanimously affirmed Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu as APC’s leader in Abia, signaling unity and renewed grassroots mobilisation ahead of the polls.
The resolutions are contained in a communiqué issued after a pre-congress meeting at Kalu’s country home in Bende on Sunday.
The meeting drew party executives, former lawmakers, serving legislators and senior figures from across the 17 local government areas. Present were Dr Donatus Nwankpa (National Welfare Secretary), Sen. Nkechi Nwogu (former senator), and Dr Nyerere Anyim (APC National Vice Chairman).
Also in attendance were Chief Chris Nkwonta, representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency, and Dr Emeka Wogu, Chairman of the South East Development Commission.
According to the communiqué, Tinubu’s endorsement reflected confidence in his leadership and reform-driven administration.
The stakeholders described his policies as “bold, transformative and necessary for long-term national stability”.
They said his adoption was consistent with the zoning arrangement and the principle of power rotation.
The communiqué stated that such adherence would promote equity, inclusion and national cohesion.
The meeting also expressed firm support for ongoing and proposed Federal Government projects across the South-East.
These include road rehabilitation, rail modernisation and renewed investment in long-neglected infrastructure.
Stakeholders commended what they termed an improved federal presence in the region.
They noted that sustained infrastructure development would stimulate economic growth and regional integration.
Participants praised the administration’s economic reforms, particularly its efforts to stabilise public finances.
They emphasised private-sector-led growth as crucial to unlocking opportunities in enterprise, manufacturing and trade.
The communiqué urged members to defend the party’s achievements with facts and discipline.
Kalu’s affirmation as state leader followed a motion moved by Nwogu and seconded by Nkwonta.
Stakeholders from the 17 local government areas endorsed him through a unanimous voice vote.
In his acceptance speech, Kalu expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him.
“I am honoured by your unity and trust,” he said, vowing inclusive leadership and stronger ward and local structures.
“Let us work together to deliver Abia in 2027,” he added.
Kalu disclosed that over 160,000 members were registered during the first phase of the nationwide e-registration exercise.
He described the figure as evidence of renewed grassroots mobilisation across the state.
He projected that membership would exceed 200,000 when the registration portal reopens.
According to him, sustained mobilisation would position the party strongly ahead of future elections.
Kalu urged leaders to prioritise unity and avoid actions that could weaken internal cohesion.
“Let us put the party first and strengthen our resolve,” he said.
