Former Governor of Abia State, Orji Kalu, asserts that he is the most significant politician from the South-East region, rather than the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 election, Peter Obi.
He maintained that his political accomplishments exceed those of Obi.
“He (Obi) is not my leader; I am the most significant politician from that zone,” Kalu declared.
“I have previously won two states under the PPA. I have run for president before; my 4.9 million votes in 2007 are still relevant. We achieved considerable success with the PPA, having ministers, ambassadors, and other appointments during President Yar’Adua’s administration.”
In response to a question regarding his future political aspirations, Kalu stated that age would not prevent him from seeking the presidency if the opportunity arises, citing former U.S. President Donald Trump as a reference.
“If I am in good health and God grants me life, I can still run. The issue is not age; it is about competency.
“It concerns what I possess intellectually and what I can accomplish.”
When questioned about whether he thought the Igbos should support Obi in upcoming elections, Kalu addressed the renewed calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), advising caution against making public statements on a case that is still pending in the courts.
“You know this case is under the jurisdiction of a competent court. It would not be prudent for me to publicly express my opinion without understanding the court’s position or that of the President. The President is closely monitoring the judiciary.”
He mentioned that discussions are taking place at various levels, but he would not disclose any private conversations he has had with President Bola Tinubu regarding the issue.
“I have engaged in discussions regarding this matter with the President on numerous occasions. However, I am unable to disclose the specifics of those conversations. It is a privilege for me to have had the opportunity to speak with the President. What is important is that there is a collective desire for a peaceful resolution,” Kalu stated.
Senator Kalu highlighted his esteem for the judiciary, encouraging Nigerians to permit the courts to complete their proceedings before forming any judgments.
“We are all participating in what I refer to as backdoor diplomacy, stemming from the profound respect I hold for the judiciary. We must avoid making Justice Nyako or any judge appear foolish by publicly discussing this case. It is imperative that Nigerians honor the rulings of our courts,” he remarked.
The former governor stressed that only the Attorney-General of the Federation possesses the legal authority to terminate such a case.
He also called for restraint among those advocating for Kanu’s immediate release.
