Former Abia State governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has spoken about the economy and reacted to rumour of his death.
In an interactive session with journalists, Kalu spoke about the recent Edo State election, attributing the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the hard work of the party leadership.
He praised the National Working Committee (NWC), including the National Chairman, Secretary, and Senate President, for their efforts in mobilizing support.
“To be honest, the national chairman, the national secretary, and members of the NWC, including even the Senate President, have worked so hard, and I believe whoever works hard in an election deserves to win. The election is about numbers – when you have the numbers, you win. APC is the most organized and united party right now,” he stated.
Addressing rumor of his death, Kalu said: “Ah well, I died for five days and then woke up! No, it’s a joke.”
He clarified that he had simply taken time off to pursue studies in the United States.
“There was nothing wrong with me. I went to the U.S. for some studies in democracy and the economy. I didn’t go for any medical treatment; I was studying at a university.”
He expressed gratitude to God and dismissed any health-related concerns.
Asked about rumors regarding his private jet, Kalu acknowledged the tough economic conditions facing Nigeria, noting that he had made personal sacrifices to adapt.
“Yes, the hardship is true. People are suffering, including our workers – we have about 10,000 employees across our group. Flying a private jet costs about $10,000 to $20,000 per trip, so I made the decision to fly commercial and save the money to restructure our workforce.”
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his “bold economic reforms”, despite the difficulties they have brought to many Nigerians.
“The president is very courageous. No president in the last 60 years has had the courage to do what he’s doing now in terms of reforming the economy. It’s a difficult time, but we will come out stronger.
“I appeal to the president to bring succor quickly. The condition of Nigerian people is not too good, and something needs to be done like yesterday.”
When asked about APC’s strategy to win the Southeast, particularly considering social afflictions in the region, Kalu stressed the importance of commitment to the party’s goals.
“We are working very hard in our state. It’s about interest. We need to convince our people where they should belong. Our focus is to ensure that people vote for the APC.”
On the Passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Kalu expressed condolences regarding the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a prominent Nigerian statesman, he said, “Nobody can predict death. Even when people say I have died, it’s inevitable for all of us. I was born to die, and I will be born again to die. We must all prepare for death because it’s God who gives and takes life.”