Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North and serving as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC), has declined the Northern Youth Leaders Forum’s (NYLF) invitation to run for president in 2027.
In a statement, Kalu emphasized his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
The NYLF, a coalition of 40 influential groups, had recently met with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State, advocating for a reshuffling of the presidential ticket.
NYLF President, Comrade Eliot Afiyo, proposed Senator Kalu or Labour Party’s Peter Obi as potential presidential candidates, with Governors Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State or Umar Fintiri of Adamawa State as possible running mates.
However, Kalu dismissed the proposal, stating that his political agenda remains focused on supporting the current administration.
He declared, “The presidency in 2027 is not on my agenda. I have every right to choose my path, and I have chosen to stand firmly behind President Tinubu.”
George Maduka, speaking on behalf of Senator Kalu’s Media Office, highlighted the need for political stability and economic continuity.
He quoted Kalu as praising Tinubu’s ambitious economic reforms aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy.
Kalu stated, “Since the return of independence, no leader has shown the boldness to overhaul our economic framework as Tinubu has. For the sake of our nation’s prosperity, we must let him complete the transformative work he has begun.”
Kalu’s message also served as a caution to political opponents, urging them to focus on their own campaigns rather than attempting to involve him in conflicts.
His declaration of support for Tinubu is to ensure that the current administration’s reforms are not disrupted by political distractions as the nation approaches the 2027 elections.
Additionally, Kalu appealed to all political stakeholders, calling for unity and a focus on long-term national interests over short-term partisan battles.
