After returning from a brief trip to the United States, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the former governor of Abia State, took the opportunity to engage with journalists, sharing his perspectives on a range of pressing issues, including the recent Edo State election, Nigeria’s economic situation, and the rumors concerning his health.
Edo State Election: APC’s Resounding Victory
Discussing the recent elections in Edo State, Kalu attributed the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the relentless efforts of the party leadership. He specifically commended the National Working Committee (NWC), including the National Chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje, the Secretary, and the Senate President, for their pivotal roles in mobilizing support.
“The victory is a significant milestone for the APC, marking our return to power after a four-year hiatus,” Kalu noted. He emphasized that the party’s triumph was not merely coincidental but a result of hard work and strategic planning. “To be honest, the national chairman, the national secretary, and members of the NWC, including even the Senate President, have worked so hard. Whoever works hard in an election deserves to win. The election is about numbers – when you have the numbers, you win. The APC is the most organized and united party right now,” he stated.
Kalu highlighted the successful campaign led by Senator Monday Okpebholo, who secured victories across all three senatorial districts, claiming 11 out of 18 local governments. The party’s achievements were bolstered by the strong backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose support Kalu described as instrumental.
Addressing Health Rumors with Humor
When questioned about circulating rumors regarding his health, Kalu responded with lightheartedness. “Ah well, I died for five days and then woke up! No, it’s a joke,” he said, clarifying that he had simply taken a break to pursue studies in democracy and economics in the United States. “There was nothing wrong with me. I went to the U.S. for some studies at a university, not for any medical treatment,” he explained. He expressed gratitude to God and dismissed any concerns about his well-being.
Economic Hardship and Personal Sacrifices
On the topic of Nigeria’s economic challenges, Kalu acknowledged the difficulties facing the nation. He candidly discussed the impact on his personal decisions, particularly regarding travel. “Yes, the hardship is true. People are suffering, including our workers – we have about 10,000 employees across our group. Flying a private jet costs about $10,000 to $20,000 per trip, so I made the decision to fly commercial and save the money to restructure our workforce,” he stated.
Kalu lauded President Bola Tinubu for his courageous economic reforms, despite the hardships they may impose. “The president is very courageous. No president in the last 60 years has had the courage to do what he’s doing now in terms of reforming the economy. It’s a difficult time, but we will come out stronger,” he asserted.
APC’s Strategy in the Southeast
Addressing questions about the APC’s strategy to gain traction in the Southeast region, Kalu stressed the importance of aligning interests. “We are working very hard in our state. It’s about interest. We need to convince our people where they should belong. Our focus is to ensure that people vote for the APC,” he emphasized.
Condolences for Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu
Kalu also took a moment to express his condolences regarding the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a prominent Nigerian statesman. Reflecting on the philosophical aspects of life and death, he remarked, “Nobody can predict death. Even when people say I have died, it’s inevitable for all of us. I was born to die, and I will be born again to die. We must all prepare for death because it’s God who gives and takes life.” He called for acceptance of life’s natural cycle, urging people to reflect on the importance of preparation for life’s inevitable end.
A Call for Economic Intervention
In his closing remarks, Kalu underscored the urgent need for interventions to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians. “I appeal to the president to bring succor quickly. The condition of Nigerian people is not too good, and something needs to be done like yesterday,” he urged, highlighting the critical need for immediate action to improve the economic landscape for ordinary citizens.
