The Aba South Local Government Chapter of the Club 17 Peace Initiative has joined other Local Government chapters across Abia State in calling on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to join the 2027 Abia State governorship race.
The group made the call during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Aba South, where members discussed emerging political developments in the state and the need for broader participation in the 2027 governorship contest.
According to the group, their appeal is based on what they described as the Deputy Speaker’s growing influence in national politics and his perceived capacity to attract development-oriented leadership to Abia State.
They further stated that several Local Government chapters of the initiative have already expressed similar sentiments, creating what they described as a “growing consensus” across different parts of the state.
The Aba South chapter emphasized that Abia State requires experienced political leadership capable of strengthening unity, promoting economic development, and improving infrastructure across urban and rural communities.
Members of the group noted that their position is not driven by party affiliation but by what they termed a desire for inclusive governance and political stability in the state ahead of 2027.
They also called on stakeholders across political parties, civil society, and youth groups to support dialogue on leadership choices that they believe will shape the future of Abia State.
In their address, the group highlighted the importance of early political engagement, urging potential aspirants to begin consultations with stakeholders across all zones of the state.
They maintained that their call for Benjamin Okezie Kalu to join the race is part of a broader statewide movement within the Club 17 Peace Initiative aimed at promoting credible leadership discussions.
The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to peace and democratic participation, stating that it will continue to mobilize support for what it considers leadership options that align with the aspirations of Abia people ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
