2027: Mascot Uzor-Kalu declares ambition to contest governorship election under APC
2027: Mascot Uzor-Kalu declares
ambition to contest governorship election under APC
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
The governorship candidate of the Action Peoples Party in Abia State during the 2023 governorship election Chief Mascot Uzor-Kalu, has officially declared his intention to contest for the 2027 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress in the State.
Kalu who is a former chief of staff to a former governor in the state made his intention public on Saturday during a meeting of party faithfuls in Umuahia the state capital.
He urged members to remain united and steadfast, emphasising that internal divisions have hindered the party’s progress in the state and set aside personal differences for the greater good of the APC.
“I was at the party office recently, and I told them that if all political parties should contribute money, the APC should have the largest. But because of divisiveness, it cannot be realised. All I am preaching is for peace,” he said.
He said his participation in the last governorship election, describing it as a reflection of the people’s will, adding that his aspiration for 2027 is anchored on service, unity, and good governance.
He said “I stand before you with humility and hope that the future is bright. I was the fourth runner up in the last governorship election and I congratulated the winner because the election showed the yearnings of the people.
“I stand for local government autonomy and the welfare of civil servants. Let us build an Abia that works for all and not for some. Our project is anchored on God. Onye ruo, ya erie (he who works, should eat).
Kalu reaffirmed his independent decision to join the race, emphasising that no one compelled him to run. He urged party members to participate actively in the forthcoming primaries, describing it as the first crucial step toward reclaiming leadership in Abia State.
Also speaking, Mrs Udonma Ezinne, State Woman Leader of the party applauded Kalu’s decision and called for unity within the party. She disclosed that appirant officially defected to the APC on October 24, stressing that peace and cooperation were essential for victory in 2027.
In his remarks a chieftain of the party, Chief Barrister Ndukwe Peter noted that history was being made in the party, affirming that the APC stood for good governance and expressing the support of the Reality Organisation for Kalu’s ambition.
Similarly, Barrister Perfect Okorie, former State Secretary of the APC, emphasised the need for direction and urged party members to rally behind Kalu as the party’s leader and governorship candidate.
Mr Ojisi Iroh Ogbaja of the OUK Movement also expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to lead the state, urging Kalu to continue engaging with the people as the party prepares for the next election cycle.