The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Kalu, has dismissed reports of a secret list of preferred candidates for the 2027 general elections in Abia state. This alleged list had been causing tension among APC aspirants in the state who had undergone screening for the primary election.

The APC in Abia state had been preparing for the 2027 general elections, with aspirants undergoing screening for the primary election. Reports of a secret list of preferred candidates led to tension among the aspirants.

Deputy Speaker Kalu described the speculation as contrary to the principles of participatory democracy and the constitutional provisions guiding the APC. He assured that only democratic primaries and consensus agreements, which are stipulated by the party's constitution, will produce APC candidates in the state.

"It's 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."

Kalu explained that, in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution, aspirants are expected to either mobilise grassroots support to emerge through direct primaries. They can also engage in consultations capable of producing a consensus candidate. He urged members of the APC in the State to disregard rumours about the existence of a secret list for House of Assembly, National Assembly, and governorship primaries.

Chief Benjamin Kalu is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, a position he's held since 2019. He represents the Bye-Election/Anambra East/Anambra West Federal Constituency of Anambra State.

The APC in Abia state will now proceed with the primary elections, which are expected to produce the party's candidates for the 2027 general elections. The Deputy Speaker's assurance that the party will follow its constitution and conduct democratic primaries is expected to calm tensions among aspirants.

  • Deputy Speaker: Chief Benjamin Kalu
  • Position: Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives
  • State: Abia state
  • Party: All Progressives Congress (APC)
  • Year of elections: 2027
  • Process of primaries: Direct primaries and consensus agreements