Former Abia State Governor and Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, has declared himself the most influential politician from Nigeria’s South-East region, dismissing claims that Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi holds that title.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Kalu insisted that his political accomplishments far outweigh Obi’s.
He boldly stated, “He (Obi) is not my leader. I am the most important politician from that zone.”
Kalu highlighted his political journey and electoral record, recalling his days as the founder of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA). “I have won two states before under PPA.
I ran for president before, and my 4.9 million votes in 2007 are still there. We achieved a lot with PPA we had ministers, ambassadors, and several appointments under President Yar’Adua,” he said.
When asked about his political future, the former governor said he remains open to contesting the presidency again if health and opportunity permit.
He cited US President Donald Trump as an example of how age should not deter political ambition.
“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 declared.
On whether he supports Igbos rallying behind Peter Obi ahead of future elections, Kalu avoided a direct endorsement, choosing instead to emphasize leadership through results rather than sentiment.
Turning to the issue of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, Kalu urged caution and respect for the judicial process.
He said he had discussed Kanu’s case privately with President Bola Tinubu but refused to disclose details.
“You know this case is before a court of competent jurisdiction. It’s not right for me to canvass my opinion publicly. The President is watching the judiciary closely,” Kalu explained.
He noted that discussions are ongoing behind the scenes, describing them as “backdoor diplomacy.”
“We must not make Justice Nyako or any judge look like a fool by discussing this case publicly. Nigerians must respect the decisions of our courts,” Kalu added.
The senator stressed that only the Attorney-General of the Federation has the legal power to discontinue Kanu’s trial, urging those calling for his immediate release to exercise restraint.
Kalu’s comments have reignited political debate across the South-East, where supporters of both politicians continue to argue over who truly represents the region’s political future.
