A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Chief Henry Ikoh has debunked declaring interest to run for the 2027 governorship seat in Abia State.
Reports had it that Chief Ikoh, had in a key stakeholder’s meeting with members of the APC in his country home, Ahuwa Oboro, Ikwuano Local Government Area of the state indicated that he might join the race for the governorship seat of state if the opportunity arises.
Sources in the party in Ikwuano disclosed that the former minister who had previously contested for the governorship seat of the state, suggested that he would consider running again should the political terrain favor such a move.
Our correspondent reports that the rumours that the former Minister had declared interest to run for governorship generated argument over his chances of emerging the APC governorship candidate as the reports have it that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu will be in the 2027 governorship race.
The Nation reports that politicians in the state who aspire for various political positions in 2027, have started various political engagements, including consultations with critical stakeholders in the party from ward level to the state, ahead of the parties primaries and among others.
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However, when contacted, Chief Ikoh in an exclusive telephone interview with our correspondent disassociated himself from reports making the rounds that he had declared his interest to run for the governorship seat in the state.
According to him, “I have not told anybody that I am running (for governorship position).
“The time is still very early for anybody to declare his or her interest (for any political position). “
“Many people, including different groups, have been urging me to come and run because of the confidence that they have in me.
“But I told them that I am still consulting with God. I will consult with my family and critical stakeholders of the party before I will make my intention known.”
Asked if he thinks that he has the capacity to govern the state if the opportunity comes, Chief Ikoh said “Somebody who has served as a federal minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the capacity to be the President also, but I have not said anything yet.
“I have tried to be governor in my state three times in the past and in service to humanity, if the opportunity comes and I am to serve my people in that capacity.”