By Christiana Ekpa
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has secured the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest for a third term in the House ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kalu emerged unopposed during the APC primary election for the Bende Federal Constituency held on Saturday in Abia State.
Party members across the 13 wards that make up the constituency unanimously affirmed his candidacy, further strengthening his bid to return to the National Assembly.
The wards involved in the affirmation process included Alayi, Bende, Ezeukwu, Igbere, Item, Itumbuzo, Nkpa, Ntalakwu, Ozuitem, Ugwueke, Umu-Imenyi, Umuhu-Ezechi and Uzuakoli.
The exercise reportedly witnessed a large turnout of party members, delegates and stakeholders who participated in the ward-level affirmation process.
Party executives and stakeholders commended Kalu for what they described as effective legislative representation, quality leadership and commitment to grassroots development since assuming office.
According to them, his emergence without opposition reflected the confidence and trust APC members and constituents have in his leadership.
Speaking after the exercise, the deputy speaker appreciated party faithful, women groups, youths, community leaders and constituents for their continued support.
He pledged to continue delivering democratic dividends to the people of Bende Federal Constituency through inclusive governance, developmental initiatives and policies aimed at improving welfare and expanding economic opportunities.
Earlier, Erasmus Cishak, chairman of the APC National Assembly Primary Election Committee for Abia State, assured party members and aspirants of a peaceful and transparent primary process across the state.
He urged stakeholders and aspirants to conduct themselves responsibly and abide by the party’s rules throughout the exercise.
