Former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, has declared himself the most important politician from Nigeria’s South-East region, dismissing Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi’s political significance in the zone.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Kalu said his political accomplishments outweigh Obi’s.
“He (Obi) is not my leader. I am the most important politician from that zone,” Kalu stated.
He highlighted his past achievements as proof of his political relevance, noting that he once governed two states under the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA).
“I have won two states before under PPA. I ran for president before; my 4.9 million votes in 2007 are still there. We achieved a lot with PPA, we had ministers, ambassadors, and other appointments under President Yar’Adua,” he said.
Addressing questions about his future political plans, Kalu said age would not stop him from seeking the presidency if given the opportunity.
“If I’m healthy and God gives me life, I can still contest. The question is not age; it’s competency. It’s about what is in my brain and what I can deliver,” he said, citing U.S. President Donald Trump as an example of political longevity.
On Nnamdi Kanu’s Case
Kalu also commented on the renewed calls for the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu. He cautioned against public discussions on a matter still before the courts.
“You know this case is before a court of competent jurisdiction. It is not a very good thing for me to come out openly to start canvassing my opinion without knowing the position of the court or that of the President. The President is watching the judiciary closely,” he said.
The senator disclosed that he had spoken with President Bola Tinubu about the issue but declined to share details of their conversation.
“I have discussed this issue with the President many times. But I cannot tell you what I discussed with him. It’s a privilege for me to have spoken to the President. What matters is that everyone wants a peaceful resolution,” Kalu noted.
He emphasized respect for the judiciary, urging Nigerians to allow the courts to handle the matter without external pressure.
“All of us are doing what I call backdoor diplomacy because of the utmost respect I have for the judiciary. We must not make Justice Nyako or any judge look like a fool by discussing this case publicly,” Kalu said.
He further reminded the public that only the Attorney-General of the Federation has the legal authority to discontinue the case, appealing for calm among those calling for Kanu’s release.
What you should know
Orji Uzor Kalu, a senator and former governor of Abia State, remains an influential voice in South-East politics.
His recent remarks reignite debates about leadership and political influence in the region, particularly as discussions on Nnamdi Kanu’s detention and 2027 presidential politics intensify.
