……Defends Tinubu’s leadership, and backs U.S. cooperation against terrorism
By Fatima Saka
Abuja, Nigeria — Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has dismissed reports of division within the Senate, confirming that earlier moves to unseat the Senate President had failed due to the chamber’s unity and focus on national development.
Speaking with journalists at the National Assembly on Tuesday in Abuja, the former Abia State governor said the Senate remains committed to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through legislation that promotes economic growth and improves citizens’ welfare.
“Yes, there were attempts, but we didn’t allow it to happen. The Senate is one big family. We are more interested in making laws that will help President Tinubu succeed. The legislation we are bringing is pro-business and people-oriented,” Kalu said.
Addressing questions on the increasing wave of defections from other political parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Kalu clarified that no governor or political leader has been coerced to join the party, emphasizing that such moves are voluntary.
“Neither I nor other senators have forced anyone to join APC. But as a loyal party member, I will campaign for all APC candidates, including President Tinubu, in 2027,” he added.
When asked about Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, and speculation about his possible defection to the APC, Kalu expressed optimism, describing Soludo as a “progressive” who aligns ideologically with Tinubu and other APC leaders.
“Soludo is a progressive like Mr. President and other forward-thinking governors. I believe he will eventually join APC. He has no alternative,” Kalu stated.
On the controversy surrounding recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump about insecurity in Nigeria, the senator, known for his pro-American stance, said Trump’s comments reflected the harsh realities of terrorism in the country.
“Trump spoke the truth. Nigerians are being killed, Christians and Muslims alike. These are jihadists who want to destroy Nigeria, and they must be smoked out. The Nigerian Air Force has intensified operations, possibly with intelligence support from the U.S.,” he explained.
Kalu also emphasized that the current administration is tackling security challenges more decisively, with President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the military leadership committed to ending terrorism and restoring peace.
He further linked Nigeria’s current instability to the aftermath of U.S.-led interventions in Libya and Iraq, saying, “When Gaddafi and Saddam Hussein were killed, small arms spread across Africa, and we’re still suffering from it.”
On the economy, Kalu admitted that while the macroeconomic indicators show improvement, ordinary Nigerians are still facing hardship.
“The economy is growing, foreign investors are coming in, but the micro-economy is struggling. What will help is going back to the farm. The President has put his life on the line to revive the economy,” he said.
The lawmaker emphasized with confidence that President Tinubu remains politically unchallenged ahead of 2027.
“Tinubu has no opposition. The APC is strong and grounded across the country. The President will win again because the people trust him,” Kalu declared.
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