A storm of reactions has trailed comments credited to former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, after he warned that the state would “lose dearly” if he is not returned to the Senate in 2027.
The remarks, which surfaced at a recent political gathering, have drawn sharp criticism from political observers and stakeholders across Abia, who described them as self-serving and dismissive of democratic choice. Critics argue that Kalu’s suggestion that Abia’s progress hinges on his continued presence in the National Assembly undermines the collective role of elected representatives and institutions.
More controversy followed when the former governor launched verbal attacks on Governor Alex Otti, branding him a one-term governor. Kalu went further to declare his intention to actively oppose Otti’s re-election bid, vowing to mobilise support to wrest control of Abia State for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Opposition voices within the state say the comments reflect an aggressive political posture ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that such rhetoric risks overheating the polity.
Some stakeholders also questioned the democratic implications of a serving senator openly pledging to “work against” an incumbent governor rather than engaging voters on policy alternatives and performance.
Supporters of Governor Otti, on their part, dismissed Kalu’s claims as premature, insisting that the electorate would ultimately judge leaders based on governance outcomes rather than political threats. They maintained that Abia’s future should be determined by the will of the people, not by what they described as political intimidation.
As the countdown to 2027 gradually begins, analysts note that Kalu’s statements may signal an early intensification of political battles in Abia State, setting the tone for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election cycle.
