2027: Backing Tinubu Will Boost Igbo Political Leverage — Benjamin Kalu
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, has called on the South-East to adopt a strategic political approach by supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, saying such a move would significantly enhance the Igbo’s bargaining strength within Nigeria’s power structure.
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, made the appeal on Monday during a series of courtesy visits across Abia North, Abia Central, and Abia South senatorial zones. The engagements were aimed at strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the next general elections.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, the Deputy Speaker said the most realistic pathway to an Igbo presidency lies in deliberate alliance-building, particularly through active participation in the ruling party and sustained support for the sitting president.
He described votes as strategic political capital that must be invested wisely to yield future dividends, warning against allowing emotions or sentiments to determine electoral decisions.
“Politics is about numbers, not sentiment. Votes are the currency of negotiation. When you invest them where they do not translate into influence, you weaken your position at the negotiation table,” Kalu said.
According to him, supporting President Tinubu would foster trust, inclusion, and mutual political obligation, thereby positioning the South-East more favourably in future power transitions. He urged Igbo leaders and voters to prioritise long-term strategic outcomes over short-term emotions.
“President Bola Tinubu is the political investment that will count today. That is the present reality, and we must engage it with clarity,” he added.
Kalu also aligned with President Tinubu’s New Year message calling for unity and inclusiveness among political leaders, stressing that national stability depends on cooperation across party and regional lines.
He said leaders must rise above divisive tendencies and work collectively to strengthen both party cohesion and national unity.
As part of the consultations, the Deputy Speaker visited prominent APC leaders and elder statesmen, including former Abia State Governor and ex-Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu; Senator John Nwannunu; and former Managing Director of the defunct Hallmark Bank, Sir Mac Wabara.
Discussions during the meetings focused on party unity, grassroots mobilisation, and sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
Kalu also presented his two-year legislative performance report to the party elders, inviting constructive evaluation of his stewardship.
“I believe leadership should be open to scrutiny. I asked them to assess my performance so I can improve,” he said.
He further urged party leaders to intensify grassroots engagement, declaring that the era of negotiating marginal presidential votes in Abia State was over. According to him, the APC now possesses the structure, momentum, and political capacity to secure a decisive victory for President Tinubu in the state in 2027.
The elder statesmen commended Kalu for his legislative interventions, describing his contributions at the National Assembly as impactful and responsive to the needs of the people.
