Pentecost Message: Orji Kalu Urges Nigerians to Embrace Love, Stability and Progress

By Dr. Violet Akifagbowo

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has intensified his political activities ahead of the next general elections, using developments in Abia North to reaffirm support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while also celebrating his victory in the APC senatorial primary.

The former governor of Abia State, who currently represents Abia North in the Senate, joined thousands of APC members in Igbere Ward A during the party’s presidential primary. Supporters described the exercise as peaceful and energetic, with over 2,000 party faithful participating in support of Tinubu’s second-term bid.
Speaking after the primary, Kalu said the turnout demonstrated continued confidence in Tinubu’s administration and the direction of the APC. He maintained that the crowd reflected growing trust in the president’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
According to the senator, the strong backing from his ward indicates that many Nigerians favour continuity and political stability. He added that the APC remains determined to consolidate its presence in Abia and extend its reach across the South-East and other parts of the country.
Kalu further stated that Tinubu recorded the highest number of votes in the ward during the primary, adding that party leaders were already working to sustain the momentum ahead of future elections.
Political analysts believe Kalu’s visible support for Tinubu forms part of a broader strategy by APC leaders to strengthen the party’s standing in the South-East, where opposition parties have traditionally enjoyed stronger influence.
Meanwhile, congratulatory messages have continued to pour in following Kalu’s victory in the APC senatorial primary for Abia North. Among those who praised him was Olufemi Adegbulugbe, a Nigerian resident in Alberta, Canada. Adegbulugbe said although he is neither from Abia nor a member of the APC, national interest should take precedence over party loyalty.
He argued that senators enact laws that affect all Nigerians and should therefore be assessed based on their national contributions rather than local political considerations alone. According to him, he has closely observed Kalu’s performance in the Senate and believes the lawmaker has demonstrated experience and competence. He also commended some other members of the 10th National Assembly for what he described as commendable service.
Results from the primary showed that Kalu secured a landslide victory, polling 65,651 votes, representing about 96.7 per cent of the total votes cast across the 57 wards in Arochukwu, Bende, Isuikwuato, Ohafia and Umunneochi local government areas.
Adegbulugbe said the outcome reflected the desire of APC members in the district for continuity, experience and capable leadership. He noted that the result could have implications not only for Abia North politics but also for the wider South-East and national political landscape.
He described the primary election as a development that could create broader political opportunities for both Kalu and the South-East region. Adegbulugbe also applauded other aspirants, including Professor Philip Nto, for participating in what he called a democratic process.
Observers of Abia politics say Kalu’s dominance within the APC structure in Abia North suggests that his influence has remained strong long after leaving office as governor in 2007. Supporters point to his experience in governance, business and national politics as factors sustaining his relevance, while critics maintain that the South-East remains highly competitive politically, with several parties still battling for dominance.
Recent political developments indicate that Kalu intends to remain active within the APC and on the national political scene.
Beyond politics, the senator also extended goodwill messages to Christians during the Pentecost celebration. He prayed for peace, unity and love among Nigerians, urging citizens to work collectively towards a stable and prosperous nation. He expressed optimism that the spirit of Pentecost would inspire greater commitment to service and national development.
For many APC supporters in Abia North, Kalu’s recent victories and public statements signal the beginning of a renewed push by the party in the South-East. Whether the APC can make significant electoral gains in the region remains uncertain, but party leaders appear committed to strengthening alliances and expanding their influence.
• Akifagbowo writes from Australia