The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has demanded an apology from Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Hon. Chris Nkwonta over their recent comments on Governor Alex Otti.
According to daily post, The party gave the two lawmakers 14 days to apologise or face disciplinary action. The demand followed a meeting of the state APC leadership in Umuahia.
The party took issue with comments made by Kalu and Nkwonta in support of Otti. Kalu, who represents Abia North in the Senate, recently spoke about the governor during a television interview.
He reportedly said Otti would win the 2027 governorship election. Nkwonta also attracted attention after expressing his support for the governor during a reception for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu in Ukwa East. Both men belong to the APC.
However, their comments have angered some members of the party in Abia. The state leadership said the remarks could weaken the party as it prepares for the 2027 election.
The APC also accused the two lawmakers of acting against the interests of the party. It said their actions amounted to indiscipline and disloyalty.
The party cited provisions of its constitution in reaching the decision. It therefore directed Kalu and Nkwonta to issue public apologies within 14 days.
The party also wants the two politicians to reaffirm their commitment to the APC and its leadership. According to the state chapter, failure to comply could result in disciplinary proceedings.
The party warned that it could take further action under its constitution if the lawmakers refuse to meet the deadline. The development comes as political activities increase across Abia ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Otti, who contested the 2023 election under the Labour Party, defeated his major opponents to become governor. His political standing has since remained a major talking point in the state.
The latest dispute has now placed two APC lawmakers at odds with the party leadership over their comments about the governor.
For the Abia APC, the issue goes beyond personal opinion. The party said its members must respect its position and protect its interests.
Kalu and Nkwonta now have 14 days to respond to the demand and avoid possible disciplinary action.
