By Milcah Tanimu
Hon. Obi Aguocha, a Labour Party (LP) lawmaker representing Umuahia/Ikwuano Federal Constituency, has strongly criticized Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu for his recent comments about the All Progressives Congress (APC) taking over Abia State in 2027. Aguocha described Kalu’s remarks as a “desperate and brazen display of political ambition.”
In response to Kalu’s video statement, where he asserted that the APC would win the governorship seat in Abia by 2027, Aguocha challenged Kalu to be upfront about his own gubernatorial ambitions rather than making veiled threats while holding his position as Deputy Speaker. He accused Kalu of showing disrespect towards Governor Alex Otti and failing to acknowledge the governor’s achievements.
Aguocha praised Governor Otti for his work in Abia, including reforms and infrastructural development, and expressed confidence that Otti would be re-elected in 2027. He urged Kalu to focus on his legislative responsibilities rather than engaging in what he called “pugnacious instability” and “intemperate political culture.”
The LP lawmaker also reminded Kalu that the Labour Party had won the Bende Federal Constituency in 2023, hinting that the seat could be contested again. He criticized Kalu’s approach, suggesting that his ambition to govern Abia should be pursued transparently rather than through indirect commentary and undermining current leadership.
Aguocha concluded by asserting that Abia people are satisfied with Otti’s governance and warned that attempts to shift political allegiance to the APC would face significant resistance. He advised Kalu to consider new political ventures if he finds his current position unsatisfactory.
