The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has dismissed reports of a preferred candidates list allegedly circulating within the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The clarification comes amid growing tension among party aspirants following speculation about pre-selected nominees for various elective positions.
Kalu said the claims were inconsistent with internal party rules and democratic principles guiding candidate selection. He insisted that no such preferred candidates list exists within the party structure in Abia State or at any recognised level of APC decision-making.
He further maintained that only constitutionally approved processes, including direct primaries and consensus arrangements, would determine the party’s candidates for the 2027 elections.
Reports of an alleged preferred candidates list emerged after APC aspirants completed screening exercises in Abia State. The development triggered internal concerns among party members, with fears of possible imposition ahead of primaries.
The APC has repeatedly emphasized internal democracy as part of its candidate selection framework. Party guidelines provide that aspirants must emerge either through direct voting by members or through consensus agreements reached voluntarily among stakeholders. Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency and serves as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has remained a key figure in Abia APC political structure.
Kalu described the circulating claims of a preferred candidates list as contrary to participatory democracy. He stressed that such practices, if allowed, would undermine trust within the party and distort internal competition. He stated that only two legitimate methods exist for APC primaries: direct primaries and consensus arrangements agreed upon by all aspirants.
The Deputy Speaker also urged party members in Abia State to disregard any reports suggesting predetermined outcomes for House of Assembly, National Assembly, or governorship tickets. He warned that any alleged list not produced through official channels should be considered invalid under party rules.
The controversy highlights ongoing internal tensions within APC structures in Abia State as preparations for 2027 elections intensify.
Political observers note that disputes over candidate selection processes often shape party cohesion and electoral competitiveness at both state and national levels. However, no official party directive has confirmed any shortlist or endorsement structure for the upcoming elections.
Kalu’s statement reinforces the party’s formal position that internal democracy must guide all nominations, in line with the Electoral Act and APC constitution.
