- By Dr Violate Akifagbowo
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is a dominant and unchallenged figure in the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with many party stakeholders agreeing that his leadership in the state is firmly established and widely accepted, not out of political maneuvering or lobbying. He worked for the respect he has garnered today.
Despite occasional political murmurs from a quarter without grassroots and state influence, there is no real contention over his position as the leader of the party in Abia.
Kalu’s influence did not emerge overnight. Nigerians of good will know about this. His political journey spans decades, dating back to a time when many of today’s political actors were not yet active on the national stage. This is a fact no one can dispute. And Kalu has remained relevant since then in humility to national politics.
Supporters often use this comparison to highlight his experience, noting that he joined partisan politics long before some current figures began their careers. This long-standing involvement has given him a deep understanding of both grassroots mobilization and high-level governance. This is a fact and respect should be accorded whom it is due to. And that person is Kalu!
Without equivocation, Kalu is a central figure—a beacon whose political direction shapes the movement of the APC. His past role as governor and his continued presence in national politics have positioned him as a bridge between the state and the federal government.
It is a known fact that party members in Abia frequently point to his ability to attract attention and resources to the state as a key reason for their loyalty.
At the national level, Kalu is a trusted ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Their political relationship is one built on mutual respect and shared goals for the country. This connection has further strengthened Kalu’s standing within the APC, both in Abia and beyond. Observers note that such trust is not easily given in Nigerian politics, making it a significant marker of his credibility.
Importantly, Kalu’s supporters argue that his influence is not the result of political maneuvering or lobbying. Instead, they say it comes from years of consistent engagement, personal relationships, and a reputation for integrity.
Many politicians within and outside the APC reportedly hold him in high regard because of how he has conducted himself over time—balancing firmness with approachability.
His leadership style is described as inclusive. By nurturing relationships across different political divides, Kalu has managed to maintain relevance even as the political landscape continues to evolve.
This ability to adapt while staying grounded has helped him avoid the kind of internal party conflicts that often weaken political structures at the state level.
While politics in Nigeria is rarely free from disagreement, the situation in Abia APC appears relatively stable when it comes to leadership. Kalu’s position is not just about hierarchy but about influence, experience, and the trust he has built over the years.
•Akifagbowo writes from Australia
