By our reporter
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia State and current senator representing Abia North, has dismissed claims of Peter Obi’s political dominance in the South-East, insisting that he remains the most influential figure in the region.
Speaking to journalists, Kalu made it clear that he does not recognize Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, as a political leader in the South-East. Instead, he positioned himself as the region’s top political voice, pointing to his decades of political experience and accomplishments.
Kalu recalled his achievements as a former governor and a presidential candidate in 2007, during which he claimed to have secured 4.6 million votes nationwide. He also highlighted his role in establishing the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), a political platform under which he said he successfully delivered governorship victories in both Abia and Imo States.
Challenging Obi’s rising popularity, Kalu argued that influence should be based on proven leadership and long-term impact, not social media trends or emotional support. He even invited Obi to a public debate, suggesting that such a face-off would clarify who truly holds political weight in the region.
The statement adds a new layer to the ongoing debate over who truly leads the South-East politically, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. While Obi has gained massive support among young voters and urban populations, particularly after the 2023 elections, Kalu believes his legacy, party-building experience, and national reach speak louder than recent popularity.
As of now, Peter Obi and his camp have not issued a formal response to Kalu’s remarks.
