In an interview with The Sun, Former Abia State Governor and current Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has defended his tenure in office, saying he laid a solid foundation that others have continued to build on. He maintained that claims he did nothing as governor were false and politically motivated.
Kalu highlighted his administration’s focus on Aba and Umuahia, explaining that his development model was built around using Aba’s commercial strength to grow the entire state. He also pointed to the elevation of Enyimba Football Club and major infrastructure upgrades, including converting local stadiums into international-standard venues.
“The first allocation I got when I was governor in 1999 was N68 million and I asked them what we were going to do with it. Umuahia was bubbling as state capital, I never slept in Igbere for eight years, I used to come to Igbere and by 1:00a.m, I will drive back to Umuahia, driving my Peugeot 406,” he recalled.
He also credited his administration with ensuring peace and stability through the introduction of the Bakassi Boys, who he said worked in collaboration with security agencies to tackle crime.
Speaking on his recent visit to Governor Alex Otti, Kalu dismissed suggestions that it was politically motivated or against the interests of the APC. He said the visit was purely in the interest of the state. “I didn’t visit him as a member of APC. He is the governor of the state, and I have the right to go and see him,” he stated.
While reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, Kalu said his focus remains on peace, unity, and economic growth in Abia, particularly as he prepares to open several factories in Igbere. He urged party members to remain committed to strengthening the APC and preparing for future electoral victories.
