Southeast–Southwest Alliance Key to Realising Igbo Presidency, Says Kalu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has described a strong political alliance between the Southeast and Southwest as the most viable pathway to producing an Igbo president in Nigeria.

Kalu stated this during a series of strategic engagements across Abia North, Central and South senatorial zones, where he met with elder statesmen and All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders to discuss party unity, political strategy and the future of the Southeast in national leadership.

He urged the Southeast to move away from emotional politics and embrace strategic political participation, insisting that votes must be invested where they will yield tangible influence and negotiation power.

“Politics is driven by numbers, not sentiments. Votes are like currency; if you invest them where they do not count, you lose at the negotiation table,” he said.

Kalu explained that continued cooperation with the Southwest, particularly under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would build trust, strengthen political inclusion and position the Southeast favourably for future presidential consideration.

He warned against any attempt to divide the southern political bloc, noting that such actions could undermine the Southeast politically.

As part of his consultations, Kalu visited former Abia State governor and ex–Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu; Senator John Bob Nwannunu; and APC stalwart and former Hallmark Bank CEO, Sir Mac Wabara, where discussions centred on party cohesion, stakeholder unity and strengthening APC structures in Abia State.

According to him, President Tinubu has tasked APC leaders nationwide to intensify engagements, deepen reconciliation efforts and strengthen unity within the party. He praised the President’s policies as tough but necessary, adding that they are already yielding results and demonstrating inclusiveness toward the Southeast.

Kalu also presented his two-year performance record to the leaders, inviting honest assessment to enhance his service delivery. He expressed confidence that the APC now has the strength and grassroots support to secure full electoral victory for President Tinubu in Abia State in future elections.

The elder statesmen commended Kalu for his impactful representation and pledged continued support for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.