Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has made explosive claims that Nigeria's current security challenges are being deliberately orchestrated by political actors seeking to weaken President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political Engineering of Insecurity
During an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Sunday program hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, the former Abia State Governor dismissed suggestions of presidential complacency, insisting that Tinubu is "not sleeping" and receives high-level intelligence briefings regularly.
"Insecurity is politically instigated. People are sponsoring this insecurity to destabilise the government. They want Tinubu to fail," Kalu alleged. He drew parallels with previous administration, noting "They did the same thing to former President Jonathan. It is all about 2027."
The lawmaker pointed to President Tinubu's decision to cancel all engagements on Sunday as evidence of his seriousness in addressing the security crisis.
Confidence in Security Agencies
Addressing the recent wave of school kidnappings across the country, Senator Kalu expressed strong confidence in Nigeria's security apparatus. "Those girls and other students that were kidnapped will be recovered", he assured the public.
He revealed that security operatives and service chiefs have mobilized fully, stating "We shall track these bandits down." Kalu emphasized that security remains a joint responsibility between Federal and state governments, cautioning governors against blaming the central administration.
Drawing from his gubernatorial experience, Kalu recounted how he handled similar challenges in Abia State. "I established the Bakassi security outfit. I drove criminals away," he stated, offering himself for emergency deployment if needed.
The Nnamdi Kanu Dilemma
Senator Kalu devoted significant attention to the case of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, advocating for a political rather than judicial solution to the ongoing crisis. While acknowledging that "Kanu's words incited people and people died", he maintained that the situation requires political dialogue.
The lawmaker disclosed ongoing engagements with relevant authorities, stating "I have been working with the Federal Government on how to solve this issue. I will be contacting the Attorney-General and the President."
He revealed historical context about Kanu's previous bail in 2017, explaining "I told them I wouldn't join APC if Kanu was not released on bail. Buhari agreed. Malami and Lawal Daura helped."
However, Kalu emphasized that the thousands of Igbos who suffered during the unrest must not be forgotten, balancing accountability with the need for resolution.
Regarding the judicial process, Kalu cautioned supporters against attacking Justice Omotosho, noting that "Justice Omotosho merely did his job" and proper channels for appeal exist. He confirmed that Kanu's legal team has already filed an appeal.
The Senator concluded by revealing high-level legislative engagement, stating "I just left the Senate President's office. We are discussing how to solve this problem. We will hand over our resolutions to the security agencies."
