Anxiety is rising within Bende Federal Constituency following strong speculations that Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, popularly known as Ofuji, may throw his hat into the 2027 race for the federal seat currently occupied by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
Previously, certain constituents of Bende have aligned themselves with the Ukwa la Ngwa leaders, who have already urged the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to enter the gubernatorial race for 2027.
It has been purportedly reported that these Bende leaders were counseling the Rt. Honourable Deputy Speaker to pursue a candidacy for governor or senate upon the completion of the two terms of Ndi ikwuisi, representing his faction within the constituency division.
Rumors circulating suggest that prominent political figures within the constituency are exerting considerable pressure on Ofuji to enter the race. This development, as gathered by All Facts, is already engendering tension among various political factions that harbor similar aspirations.
Should Ofuji ultimately declare his candidacy, political analysts predict it will culminate in nothing short of a monumental clash between him and those vying to succeed the incumbent Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who has already completed two terms as the representative for Bende. The Deputy Speaker is widely perceived to enjoy substantial support from power at the center and it is posited that he would face little difficulty transitioning to either the senatorial or gubernatorial contest.
Nevertheless, a potential advantage for Ofuji this time may lie in his side of constituency, the Umunna, whose turn it is to partake in the rotational equity shared between IkwuIshii and Umunna.
Beyond that, Ofuji is said to have consistently maintained and nurtured his political structure over the years, even without holding any public office—an advantage that may give him a strong edge if he decides to run.
When contacted to confirm the speculation, Gabriel Aguwa Paul, media aide to Ofuji, stated:
“Ofuji has not yet issued any public statements regarding the year 2027. At present, his primary focus lies in realizing his vision of empowering his constituents through meaningful interventions within his capacity and enticing both the current administration and affluent individuals to foster further development in Bende.
He has also informed us that Ofuji is diligently engaged in the planning and execution of his 2025 Irí Jị Ofuji, aiming for it to be more impactful than previous editions. Ofuji shares a profound connection with his community, and I am confident that when he decides to pursue a candidacy, he will duly inform both his constituents and the media. Therefore, I urge all members of the media to exercise caution when disseminating information devoid of substantiation.
Gabriel furthermore said that Ofuji is a person of deep faith, and he will not undertake any significant step without seeking divine guidance.
In conclusion, Ofuji media aide warns and reiterates that Ofuji has not made any public declarations on this matter, nor has he communicated anything to him regarding 2027, “hence I am not in a position to comment further. Thank you.”
The unfolding development has left many in Bende constituency watching keenly, as the political stage may be set for one of the most heated contests in the area’s recent history.
