Kalu represents Abia North Senatorial District in the Senate, while Nkwonta represents Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Chijioke Chukwu, alleged that Kalu, during an interview with a national television station, expressed the view that Otti would win the 2027 governorship election. The APC said the comments were unacceptable because the party was preparing to contest the 2027 governorship election and expected its members and leaders to support its candidates. On Nkwonta, it said his reported declaration that he would vote for Otti was also inconsistent with the party’s position. The development adds to the political manoeuvring within the Abia APC ahead of the 2027 governorship election.