Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, chairman of the Senate committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and senator representing Abia North, has declined the Northern Youth Leaders Forum’s (NYLF) invitation to run for president in 2027. The NYLF proposed either the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, or the Governor of Adamawa State, Umar Fintiri, as potential running mates.
This prominent coalition, consisting of 40 groups, made their request following a courtesy visit to former president Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Comrade Eliot Afiyo, the president of the group and the former president’s designated patron, listed the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, alongside Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as their preferred candidates, with the governors of Adamawa and Zamfara as suggested running mates.
In response, Kalu issued a statement from his media office on Thursday, signed by George Maduka, distancing himself from any presidential aspirations. He emphasised that he has already made his position clear regarding the 2027 election and cautioned against distractions from the opposition.
Kalu stated that there is no discord within his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), regarding the candidate for 2027. He added that the President requires encouragement for his ongoing economic reforms.
He urged opposition parties to focus on their political objectives and refrain from involving him in their struggles.
The statement reads in part: “Nigerian politics operates within a federal and presidential republic framework and a representative democracy, wherein citizens have the right to vote and be elected. Senator Kalu has every right to choose not to pursue the presidency in 2027. He has publicly endorsed President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for re-election and is committed to the necessary work ahead.
“Kalu strongly believes in Tinubu’s economic reforms. He understands that sustainability requires a focus on long-term stability, inclusivity, and adaptability, and that the President needs a full eight years to realise these goals.
“The former governor holds the utmost respect for the President, with their friendship spanning decades, predating their governorships beginning in 1999. Kalu is steadfast in his beliefs and remains committed to supporting Tinubu and his bold progressive economic reforms.
“Kalu believes that Nigeria’s prosperity hinges on the successful implementation of these reforms. Since independence, no Nigerian leader has dared to tackle the challenges facing the economy as Tinubu has. Kalu believes the best course for Nigerians is to support and re-elect him in 2027, enabling him to complete the vital work he has begun,” the statement concluded.
