2019: Kalu Backs Buhari’s Second Term Bid, Declares Interest In Senate Seat
Former governor of Abia State and eminent businessman, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu has thrown his weight behind President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term.
This was even as he has declared interest to run for Abia North senatorial seat in 2019.
Kalu, who is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), disclosed this to newsmen on the sidelines of the maiden Igbere Cultural Carnival at the weekend at his Camp Neya countryhome, venue of the carnival.
The former governor said he is vying for the Senate seat because past representatives were concerned about self aggrandisement rather than initiating and pushing policies that would be in the interest of the people.
Kalu recalled how he transformed the state during his tenure as governor and stated that his decision to vie for the Senate is to ensure he brings democracy dividends to the people of Abia North.
The former governor said he would not only bring his wealth of political experience to bear if he is elected, but would also ensure he uses his connection with the present administration to draw the presence of the Federal Government to Abia North senatorial district.
He also praised president Buhari for the ongoing rehabilitation of Umuahia-Uzoakoli-Ohafia, Ozuitem-Igbere and Nkpa and other roads in Abia North, through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Kalu said he is sure that the president means well for the state and the South East at large.
The former Abia state governor hailed Buhari for the successes he has recorded and the reforms his administration has introduced since coming to power.
He also seized the opportunity to state his commitment towards ensuring the re-election of Buhari in 2019.
This was just as he commended the president for being committed in his fight against corruption, insurgency and also seeing that the country came out of recession within two years of his administration.
“OUK will go the Senate and stay in Senate and I will support president Muhammdau Buhari’s reelection because the surest way an Igbo man can become the president of this country is 2023.
“If Buhari is not re-elected, it means that an Igbo president will not be feasible in 2023; it doesn’t matter if they say we are selfish,” Kalu said.