Writing By Bashir M; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
Senator representing Abia North has dismissed allegations that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is working to undermine opposition parties through the electoral system.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu made this known while speaking with journalists at the National Assembly lobby on Monday during activities marking his 66th birthday.
The lawmaker described claims by opposition parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as harmful to Nigeria’s democratic system.
Kalu reassured that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) remains an autonomous institution that deserves respect.
According to him, the APC has no control over INEC, stressing that the electoral umpire operates independently. He added that the party has nothing to do with the commission and respects its leadership.
The lawmaker also rejected insinuations that the ruling party is coercing politicians, particularly governors, to defect into its fold. He maintained that party membership remains a matter of personal choice and negotiation, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has never pressured anyone to join the APC.
Kalu reiterated that the President has never compelled anyone to leave their party or join the APC. “If a governor decides to join the party, that is his business. When you come, we negotiate,” he said.
On speculations that the Senate Presidency may be zoned to the South East, the senator said he was unaware of any such arrangement. He described zoning decisions as the exclusive prerogative of party leadership, emphasizing that he is not lobbying for any position.
“I’m not aware of that. It is for the leadership of the party to decide. If anything is given to me, I will accept, but I’m not going out of my way to seek any position,” he said.
Addressing concerns raised by some former governors over alleged marginalisation, Kalu downplayed the claims, asserting that President Tinubu maintains cordial relations with his contemporaries.
He cited recent interactions between the President and several former governors as evidence of ongoing engagement.
Kalu further expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027, describing the opposition as weak and lacking viable alternatives. He argued that the APC’s growing membership base and nationwide acceptance position it strongly ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“I don’t think anybody will defeat President Tinubu in a free and fair election. APC is like a moving train. Even in places that were not APC before, people are joining,” he said.
The senator urged political actors to focus on strengthening democratic institutions and presenting credible policy alternatives, rather than engaging in unproductive criticism.
Cov/ Bashir M
