Senator Orji Uzor Kalu denies criticizing Abia State Government, says Tinubu’s displeasure was about APC performance. Read the full story.
Saturday, April 26, 2025 | All Facts Newspaper
In a stunning reversal, former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has distanced himself from earlier comments suggesting that President Bola Tinubu was unhappy with the political situation in Abia State.
Kalu clarified that his controversial remarks were misunderstood, stating categorically that he never discussed the performance of the Abia State Government led by Governor Alex Otti.
According to the Senator, President Tinubu’s concern was solely about the poor electoral performance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia and the broader Southeast region — and not governance or individual politicians.
Orji Uzor Kalu, explained that during the 2019 elections, the APC secured about 68% of the votes in his constituency, but in 2023, the party’s numbers shockingly dwindled to a mere 4% in the same area. He said President Tinubu, a man known for valuing loyalty and political friendship, was simply baffled by the drastic decline.
“I was not referring to the governance of Abia State or any issues relating to Governor Alex Otti,” Kalu emphasized. “Some people misunderstood me. I didn’t and can never discuss a governor publicly. The governance of a state is in the hands of the people who elect their leaders, not me.”
The Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, described his earlier statement as a possible “slip of tongue,” stressing that his comments were strictly about the APC’s dismal electoral showing, which he personally found embarrassing.
“I was ashamed to see that our support base collapsed so badly. That is why I have not been forceful in asking the federal government for anything because I know we did not perform well,” he said.
Kalu further revealed that President Tinubu has tasked him with reorganizing the APC in Abia State, but insisted that he intends to work closely with other party leaders to rebuild the party’s strength ahead of future elections.
He called on the people of Abia to reconsider their political alignment and expressed optimism that the Southeast must integrate more solidly into the national political mainstream.
“We have a good rapport with the people. We will appeal to them, pacify them, and bring them back to the APC fold,” he said, reiterating his commitment to the party’s future.
The former governor’s clarification comes amidst heated political debates in Abia State, with many interpreting his earlier statements as a veiled criticism of Governor Alex Otti’s administration. However, Kalu insists he holds no grudge against any sitting governor and respects the will of the people.
“I am for APC and nothing else,” he concluded firmly.
Orji Uzor Kalu’s latest position has left many observers wondering if internal pressures within the APC or from the Presidency may have forced the sudden U-turn.
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