Elder statesman and prominent businessman, Chief Nnanna Ukaegbu, has expressed strong support for Senator Orji Uzor Kalu following his recent declaration that he will spend five months in Abia State to ensure victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Senator Kalu, the former Governor of Abia State and current lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District, made the statement while featuring on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He vowed to campaign “day and night” across Abia and the Southeast to secure a historic win for President Tinubu.
“In 2023, I didn’t put in all my best, but in 2027, I will live there for five months, campaigning day and night; it will deliver Abia for Tinubu and APC,” Kalu had said.
Reacting to the remark, Chief Ukaegbu lauded Kalu’s courage, dedication, and loyalty to the President and the ruling party. He said the former governor’s statement reflected his deep connection with the grassroots and his long-standing influence in Abia politics.
“Senator Orji Uzor Kalu remains one of the most consistent and result-oriented leaders Abia has ever produced,” Ukaegbu said.
“His decision to stay in Abia for months to campaign shows not just commitment but genuine belief in President Tinubu’s leadership and the APC’s capacity to transform the Southeast.”
Chief Ukaegbu also praised Kalu for his massive investment in youth empowerment and education, noting that many of the state’s current professionals and entrepreneurs benefited from opportunities created during Kalu’s administration between 1999 and 2007.
“Kalu’s record in youth development and education is unmatched. Many Abians still remember the free education, scholarships, job opportunities, and empowerment programmes he initiated as governor,” he noted.
He further stated that Kalu’s popularity remains strong across all sectors of Abia society from traditional rulers and church leaders to civil servants and the youth due to his outstanding performance in office and continued philanthropy.
“Orji Kalu is still loved by the people; the traditional institutions, the church, civil servants, and our vibrant youths still hold him in high regard. That is why Tinubu will do well in Abia. Kalu’s name still commands respect and affection everywhere,” Chief Ukaegbu said.
While commending Kalu’s political foresight, the elder statesman urged other politicians who might not share the senator’s approach to adopt their own campaign strategies rather than resort to criticism.
“Democracy allows everyone to express their vision. Those who don’t agree with Kalu’s approach should come up with their own. That’s the strength of democratic engagement,” he advised.
Chief Ukaegbu concluded by urging political actors in the state to prioritise peace, unity, and development as campaigns gather momentum, stressing that Abia’s progress should remain the ultimate goal.
