Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the former Governor of Abia State, has launched a strong rebuke against the current state governor, Alex Otti. Kalu accused Otti of engaging in what he termed "gutter politics" instead of focusing on delivering good governance to the people of Abia.
A Call for Governance Over Rhetoric
In a statement released on 6 January 2026, Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, called on Governor Otti to prioritize service delivery. He insisted that political rhetoric and personal attacks would not sway voters in the upcoming 2027 general elections in the state.
The senator was reacting to comments attributed to Governor Otti, which Kalu described as "vitriolic and desperate political attacks." He believes these remarks are aimed at undermining the growing influence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State.
Defending APC Loyalty and 2027 Ambitions
Kalu, through a statement issued by the Head of his Media Office, Sunday Maduka, defended his recent public declaration of loyalty to the APC. He stated that his activities to strengthen the party in Abia are legitimate and part of his duty as a party leader.
"The exercise of my fundamental right as a loyal party man and patriot... is not a crime," Kalu asserted. He emphasized his commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu's re-election and ensuring the APC fields a strong governorship candidate in Abia for 2027.
He framed Governor Otti's criticism as a sign of insecurity and fear over the APC's increasing presence, calling it a "shameful spectacle" and a frantic attempt to deflect from the administration's own shortcomings.
Focus on Issues, Not Insults
The senator urged the state governor to concentrate on addressing pressing challenges facing Abia residents. He listed key areas requiring immediate attention:
- Healthcare delivery
- Youth unemployment
- Security
Kalu stressed that Abia voters are politically discerning and would assess their leaders based on tangible performance and results, not on "invective-laden propaganda." He declared that Otti's negativity would only strengthen his resolve to mobilize resources legally and ethically to ensure an APC triumph in 2027.
He concluded by stating that the APC is prepared to compete based on ideas, policies, and grassroots mobilization, confident that the electorate would be the ultimate judge at the polls.
