Abia APC Backs Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Demands Transparency in Otti’s Administration

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State Chapter, has declared its full support for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following the controversy surrounding his recent remarks on governance in Abia State.

The party stated this in a press release on Thursday, addressing the reactions that trailed Kalu’s comments during the commissioning of roads in Aba on October 3rd, 2025, and his subsequent public engagement in Umuahia on October 5th.

According to the statement, the Deputy Speaker’s remarks, which focused on transparency, accountability, and good governance in the Labour Party-led administration of Governor Alex Otti, have been unfairly twisted into personal attacks instead of encouraging healthy debate on governance.

The Abia APC emphasized that Kalu’s comments were based on verifiable data and that his call for fiscal accountability was in line with democratic principles.

The party reaffirmed its alignment with Kalu’s position that, based on available financial records, the Abia State Government received an average of N38 billion monthly between April and June 2025 as total revenue.

The APC questioned the level of development compared to the volume of funds accrued to the state since Governor Otti assumed office, estimating the total inflow at over N1 trillion. The party urged the government to match its revenue profile with visible infrastructural projects that directly benefit the people.

The statement also called for an immediate probe into the reported N54 billion allegedly spent in 2024 on the renovation of 51 public schools. The party noted that the expenditure remains controversial and has not been fully accounted for.

The APC backed the Deputy Speaker’s demand for the full implementation of the new national minimum wage and the payment of all outstanding gratuities owed to Abia workers and retirees. The party stressed that workers’ welfare must remain a priority in any government that claims to be people-centered.

Reiterating its commitment to reclaiming the state in 2027, the Abia APC said it shares the Deputy Speaker’s optimism that the people of Abia will rally behind the APC to usher in an era of genuine accountability and transparent governance.

“The APC remains committed to aligning with the Federal Government to promote good governance, transparency, and the welfare of Abians. Our focus is not on political propaganda but on results that uplift the people,” the statement read.

Political analysts believe the statement signals growing tension between the state government and opposition figures as the 2027 elections approach, setting the stage for renewed political rivalry in Abia.