POLITICS
APC Accuses Abia Governor Alex Otti of Using Taxpayers’ Money to Sponsor Media Attacks on Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has accused the administration of Governor Alex Otti of using public funds to sponsor media campaigns aimed at damaging the reputation of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
In a statement signed by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the APC described the alleged actions as a “desperate and coordinated attempt” by certain individuals and interests to undermine and malign Kalu, whom it called its leader in the state. The party claimed these efforts stem from apprehension over Kalu’s rising political influence and widespread acceptance among Abians, particularly amid speculation about his potential interest in the 2027 governorship race.
The APC alleged that in recent weeks, the Otti-led government has sponsored media attacks and propaganda against the Deputy Speaker. It further claimed that recent meetings in Abuja involving Abia State Government officials and some media figures reportedly involved the distribution of ₦50 million to journalists to revive old allegations against Kalu—issues the party said have already been resolved by competent national authorities.
Specifically, the statement referenced a formal verification letter issued by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on May 23, 2023, which affirmed the authenticity of Kalu’s NYSC records and dismissed any discrepancies or wrongdoing.
The APC described those behind the attacks as politically stranded elements who lack a viable platform after allegedly destroying their former party during a previous political wave. It suggested these actors are now attempting to re-enter the APC by discrediting Kalu first, out of fear that his entry into the governorship contest could jeopardize the current administration’s hold on power.
Despite the alleged campaigns, the party asserted that the APC in Abia has grown significantly stronger under Kalu’s strategic leadership and influence, making it attractive to new members who previously doubted its prospects in the state. It noted that Kalu has remained calm and focused amid the controversies.
The statement concluded by urging Governor Otti to prioritize governance and the judicious use of public resources for the welfare and development of Abians, many of whom face economic hardships. It warned that the Labour Party government should prepare, as the APC is positioning itself to take over leadership in Abia State.
The APC emphasized that no amount of propaganda or funded media efforts can diminish Kalu’s standing or the goodwill he enjoys among the people of Abia State.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has put to rest speculation over its governorship ticket, with the state Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, reaffirming Eric Opah as the party’s candidate for the 2027 general election.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with FLO 94.9 FM, Chukwu declared that all controversies surrounding the party’s primaries have been resolved, and the results announced by the primary election committee — and subsequently ratified by the APC National Working Committee — remain valid and binding.
“The results of the primaries as announced by the primary election committee and ratified by the National Working Committee stand,” Chukwu said. He stressed that Eric Opah is the authentic governorship candidate of the APC in Abia State.
The chairman called on all party members to bury their differences and close ranks in order to build a formidable APC ahead of the 2027 polls.
In the same interview, Chukwu also confirmed that Hon. Erondu Uchenna will be the party’s candidate for the Abia South Senatorial District seat in the upcoming elections.
The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, Bolaji Abdullahi, has alleged that Justice Peter Lifu acted in contempt of court by issuing a judgment that deregistered the ADC and four other political parties despite a pending appeal.
According to Abdullahi, the Court of Appeal had directed that no action should be taken on the matter until the appeal is heard on October 27. He argued that proceeding with the judgment before the appellate court’s determination amounts to a disregard for the court’s directive.
“Justice Peter Lifu, the judge who gave the judgment that deregistered the ADC and four other parties, should be arrested. The Appeal Court said don’t act until the case is heard on October 27. He’s acting in contempt of court,” Abdullahi stated.
The remarks add a new dimension to the legal and political controversy surrounding the status of the affected political parties, with the matter expected to be further addressed when the appeal comes up for hearing.
KANO — Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso has been announced as the deputy governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Mustapha is the son of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a leading figure in the party and former governor of Kano State.
The announcement comes amid ongoing political realignments within the NDC in Kano. The party recently unveiled Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo as its governorship candidate for the state, following consultations among party stakeholders.
Political observers say the emergence of Mustapha Kwankwaso as running mate is expected to generate discussions within Kano’s political landscape, given his family ties to the influential Kwankwasiyya movement led by his father.
The NDC has continued to position itself as a major opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections, with the party’s leadership expressing confidence in its chances across key states, including Kano.
Party officials are expected to provide further details on the candidature and campaign strategy in the coming days.
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