- Kalu’s Priority: A strong working relationship between Tinubu and Otti.
- No Coalition Talks: He’s not interested in joining opposition efforts to unseat Tinubu in 2027.
- El-Rufai’s Exit: Kalu acknowledges El-Rufai’s departure from APC but doesn’t fully understand his reasons.
- APC’s Course: Kalu believes the APC is on the right track.
Kalu’s Stance: It’s All About Tinubu and Otti
Senator Uzor Orji Kalu, representing Abia North, made it crystal clear: his main goal is to foster a supportive relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State. Speaking to reporters after visiting Governor Otti, the former Abia governor emphasized he won’t be part of any coalition plans by opposition parties aiming to challenge President Tinubu in 2027.
“I’m not into coalition talks… My deal is for Tinubu and Otti to support each other,” Kalu stated firmly. “Otti doesn’t have a problem with me. I don’t want to talk about a coalition; I want to talk about Otti supporting Tinubu and Tinubu supporting Otti. That is my deal.”
Why This Matters
Kalu’s position is significant because it highlights potential divisions within the political landscape. While some figures are exploring alternative alliances, Kalu is doubling down on the importance of cooperation between the federal government and Abia State. This could impact development projects and political stability in the region.
El-Rufai: A Friend, But a Mystery
Addressing his relationship with Nasir El-Rufai, Kalu described the former Kaduna State governor as a close friend but admitted he doesn’t fully grasp El-Rufai’s motivations regarding a coalition. “El-Rufai is my personal friend and brother, so their condition is what I do not understand. What I understand is that APC is on course, and I have many triggers to pull out,” he explained.
El-Rufai’s recent departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) raised eyebrows, especially after he reportedly criticized the Tinubu administration. According to Premium Times, El-Rufai described the Tinubu administration as the “worst and most corrupt” in Nigeria’s history, a claim that has sparked much debate.
What’s Next?
Kalu’s focus on the Tinubu-Otti relationship suggests a strategy of prioritizing regional development and stability through cooperation with the current administration. Whether this approach will prove more effective than joining forces with opposition parties remains to be seen. Political analysts will be watching closely to see how these dynamics unfold in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
The Bigger Picture: Abia State and National Politics
Abia State’s political landscape is always one to watch. By prioritizing a good working relationship between the state governor and the president, Kalu is betting on a future where Abia benefits directly from federal support. This could mean more infrastructure projects, increased funding for social programs, and a stronger voice for Abia on the national stage.
Controversies and Considerations
Of course, Kalu’s stance isn’t without its critics. Some argue that prioritizing a relationship with the ruling party could stifle opposition and limit accountability. Others question whether Tinubu’s administration will truly prioritize the needs of Abia State. Only time will tell if Kalu’s gamble will pay off for the people of Abia.
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