2027 political showdown – Orji Kalu vows to work against Otti, reiterates support for APC ahead of general elections

The Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has announced that he will no longer support Governor Alex Otti ahead of the 2027 general election, stating that he will now concentrate on strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State.

Kalu made this known on Thursday at his country home in Igbere, where he claimed that he played a significant role in Otti’s victory in the 2023 governorship election but would not repeat such support in the next election cycle.

The former Abia State governor said his decision was triggered by a statement issued by Otti’s SA on Media Ferdinand Ekeoma which criticised him for openly declaring support for President Bola Tinubu and his intention to deliver Abia State for the APC in 2027.

According to Kalu, he had maintained a cordial relationship with Otti and refrained from criticising his administration until the statement was released.

Kalu also dismissed claims that Otti has recorded outstanding performance in office, arguing that most of the projects attributed to the current administration were rehabilitation works on roads constructed during his tenure as governor.

He further compared resources available to both administrations, claiming that Otti received more funds within a few months than he did throughout his eight years in office.

AUDIO 1

On his legislative performance, the former Senate Chief Whip said his scorecard as a senator was unmatched, citing the construction of new rural and farmland roads across communities in Abia North.

Kalu also denied ever being involved in electoral malpractice, stressing that he believed in the will of the people. He predicted victory for President Bola Tinubu and the APC in the 2027 elections, saying he would work actively to ensure the party’s success.

AUDIO 2

On his brother’s reported governorship ambition, Kalu said there was nothing wrong with him aspiring to contest, describing it as a legitimate democratic right.