Frontline Abia governorship aspirant, Sir Mascot Uzor Kalu, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that he will not step down for anyone in the race.
Kalu made the declaration after purchasing the APC governorship nomination form, becoming the first aspirant to obtain the form ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 election.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the former lawmaker described the move as a clear demonstration of his commitment to the governorship contest and his determination to offer a new leadership direction for Abia State.
“Today, in a clear demonstration of my commitment to contest the 2027 governorship election in Abia State under the platform of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), I took the valiant step of purchasing the party’s nomination form, thereby becoming the first aspirant to do so and to contest the upcoming primaries,” he said.
Kalu used the occasion to send a strong message to his supporters and political allies, urging them to remain calm and focused amid growing political permutations within the party.
“To my teeming supporters and followers, do not be shaken; remain resolutely steadfast, for I did not start this journey only to back down for anybody halfway,” he declared.
The statement is seen as a direct response to speculations surrounding possible consensus arrangements and political pressure within the Abia APC ahead of the primaries.
By stressing that he would not withdraw midway, Kalu positioned himself as a determined contender in what is expected to be a fiercely contested battle for the party’s ticket.
He also expressed gratitude to party leaders and stakeholders for their support and confidence in his vision for the state.
“My appreciation goes to all who have believed in my vision for a greater Abia, the State Working Committee of the Abia APC, the National Working Committee (NWC), and all leaders and stakeholders of our party for steering the party in the right direction,” he added.
Kalu’s formal entry into the race is expected to further reshape the political dynamics within the Abia APC as aspirants begin open mobilization ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
His declaration also signals an early test of strength within the party as stakeholders weigh the battle between consensus politics and competitive primaries in determining who flies the APC flag in Abia.
