IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has declared unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the recent wave of endorsements for the President is not driven by fear of an opposition coalition, but by confidence in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its leadership.
Speaking during a media briefing, the former Abia State governor dismissed suggestions that the APC is concerned about the growing influence of opposition parties.
“No, no, no. I don’t think that a party like APC has anybody to fear. We are the ruling party. We are passionate about Nigeria,” Uzor-Kalu said. “That is why most of us are building industries across the country to create jobs, even outside of government.”
Defending Tinubu’s Visit to the Vatican
Responding to criticisms of President Tinubu’s visit to the Vatican for the Pope’s inauguration, Uzor-Kalu defended the President’s decision, saying the visit was at the personal invitation of the Pope.
“President Tinubu is a personal friend of the Pope. They met in Chicago. The Pope invited him personally how could he refuse? He went there out of respect for the Catholic community, which includes people like me,” he said.
Uzor-Kalu also clarified that the Southeast caucus of the APC had already endorsed President Tinubu weeks before other groups made their declarations.
“We endorsed the President about three or four weeks ago. The meeting was chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma, co-chaired by the Governor of Ebonyi and the Deputy Speaker. We were the first to push for national endorsement,” he stated.
He emphasized that endorsing the President was not a political gimmick but a reflection of their belief in his leadership.
Economic Reforms and National Unity
Senator Uzor-Kalu acknowledged the hardship many Nigerians are facing due to ongoing economic reforms but praised President Tinubu’s courage in implementing difficult policies such as the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the exchange rate.
“People are suffering, I agree. But that’s because for the first time, we have a President who is telling Nigerians the truth. Nigerians are not used to hard work we’re used to shortcuts. Tinubu is changing that,” he noted.
“The benefit of these policies will trickle down in the next two to three years.”
He added that Tinubu is a national leader and not a regional one, emphasizing that his re-election should be supported by both the North and South for the sake of national stability.
“We don’t want this country to break. Tinubu will only be there for eight years. After that, he goes back to Lagos just like Buhari went back to Daura. This country belongs to all of us.”
Looking ahead to 2027, Senator Uzor-Kalu revealed plans to shift his legislative focus from infrastructure to agriculture in Abia North, drawing on his experience as governor.
“When I was governor, every Abian was farming. That’s the direction we’re going again,” he said.
“Working for my people is my passion. I don’t even have a bank account. I’m ready to spend everything I have to lift people up. That’s what leadership is about.”
He also highlighted the ongoing work in his constituency, supported by both government projects and his personal foundation, especially in education and road infrastructure.
Uzor-Kalu’s attire at the press briefing, which symbolized support for President Tinubu, caught the attention of journalists.
“What I’m wearing is already in circulation. It’s not just me. Many people are wearing this to show their support for the President,” he said.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to continue praying for President Tinubu’s health and success, expressing confidence that the reforms being implemented will eventually bring growth and prosperity to the country.
About Author
