Rev. Chika Ubani to Kalu: You can’t step aside in 2027, you must contest to represent Abia North again

Prominent Abia-born cleric, Rev. Chika Ubani, has reacted strongly to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s recent remarks about the 2027 Abia North Senatorial election, insisting that the people of the state will not accept any decision by Kalu to withdraw from the race.

Kalu, a former governor of Abia State and the current senator representing Abia North, had stated that his focus remains on delivering good governance rather than engaging in discussions about the 2027 elections.

Speaking on his priorities, Kalu said: “My focus right now is not on the politics of 2027 but on the people of Abia North Senatorial District and how to improve their lives because there is hunger in the land. I can’t be talking about politics when my people are hungry.

“Though I appreciate all the endorsements from our people at home and abroad, we still have the mandate given to us in 2023.

“My priority at the moment is to deliver more dividends of democracy, put smiles on the faces of my people, and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other patriotic Nigerians in tackling the issues affecting the progress of our great nation.”

However, in a sharp response, Rev. Ubani dismissed any possibility of Kalu stepping aside, declaring that Abians would not accept such a move.

According to Ubani, Kalu remains the best thing to happen to Abia State and Abia North, emphasizing that the people of the state are pressuring him to seek re-election.

“Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has proven himself as a leader who prioritises the welfare of his people. He has brought development, infrastructure, and good governance to Abia North and beyond. The entire state is forcing him to run again, and we won’t accept any decision to step aside,” Ubani said.

The remarks by both men have sparked fresh political conversations in Abia North, as stakeholders and residents continue to debate Kalu’s future in the Senate. While some applaud his commitment to governance over early politicking, others, like Rev. Ubani, believe his leadership remains indispensable to Abia’s progress.