Abia APC Pardons Kalu and Nkwonta Over Anti-Party Remarks

The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) granted an unconditional pardon to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Representative Chris Nkwonta on August 23, 2026. The party had previously issued a 14-day ultimatum to the lawmakers after accusing them of making anti-party remarks in support of Labour Party Governor Alex Otti's potential 2027 re-election.

Kalu allegedly predicted Otti's victory during a television appearance, while Nkwonta reportedly told First Lady Oluremi Tinubu that he intended to vote for Otti. During a stakeholders' reconciliation meeting in Umuahia, the party leadership opted for mercy over disciplinary action to maintain unity ahead of the 2027 elections. The motion for pardon was moved by Uzor Azubuike, the APC candidate for Aba North and Aba South Federal Constituency.

State Chairman Chijioke Chukwu noted that the lawmakers privately attributed their comments to dissatisfaction with internal party processes. While Chukwu accepted responsibility for party shortcomings, he warned that any future anti-party statements would result in heavy sanctions. The meeting also nullified the unauthorized suspension of several APC ward leaders.