Amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has firmly rejected calls for him to contest the presidency, declaring his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.
Kalu, who represents Abia North and chairs the Senate Committee on the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC), dismissed a proposal by the Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF), which had recommended him or Labour Party’s Peter Obi as potential candidates.
The NYLF, a coalition of 40 political groups, had also suggested Governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State or Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State as possible running mates.
Reacting to the endorsement, Kalu insisted that his focus remains on fostering national stability and backing Tinubu’s administration to complete its economic reforms. “The presidency in 2027 is not on my agenda. My priority is to support President Tinubu in delivering his vision for Nigeria,” he stated unequivocally.
In a statement released by his media office, Kalu commended Tinubu’s bold economic policies, asserting that no leader since Nigeria’s independence has embarked on such an ambitious restructuring of the economy. “President Tinubu is implementing transformational policies that require continuity. We must allow his administration to fulfill its promises to Nigerians,” Kalu emphasized.
The senator also took a swipe at political detractors, advising them to concentrate on their own aspirations instead of attempting to drag him into a presidential contest. His remarks signal a firm alignment with Tinubu’s second-term bid, reinforcing the ruling party’s cohesion ahead of the next elections.
Kalu further urged political stakeholders to put national development above partisan interests, stressing that unity and stability remain crucial for the country’s progress. With his endorsement, Tinubu’s camp gains a significant political boost as Nigeria gears up for the next electoral cycle.