Orji Uzor Kalu Denies Attacking Bola Tinubu over Presidential Ambition
The former governor of Abia State and Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, has denied allegations that he verbally attacked APC 2023 presidential aspirant, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Kalu claimed he vowed to contest against Tinubu if the presidential ticket is zoned to the South, but that cannot be translated as an attack on the person of Tinubu, the APC national leader and former governor of Lagos State.
Exonerating himself from the plot of mischief-makers, Kalu said his enemies are out to “score cheap political goals” by manipulating his statement to suit their nefarious agenda. He clarified that his friendship with Tinubu runs deep and spans decades, and that he cannot attack him under any guise.
“We can never attack Tinubu,” Kalu said through his media office. “I told Nigerians that I will contest against Tinubu if the ticket is zoned to the South. APC is a Democratic Party that allows every qualified member to vote and be voted for. It is not owned or managed by an individual. If I said I was going to contest against Tinubu, it doesn’t mean I attacked him. I cannot attack him for any reason.
“It is sad that few elements are trying to twist my statement to score cheap political goals. I am not distracted. My friendship with Tinubu is deep-rooted and I am not quarrelling with him. I am not against his ambition of becoming the president. It is the choice of the party to determine who becomes the presidential candidate.”
Earlier last week, Tinubu announced to Nigerians that he had notified President Muhammadu Buhari of his intention to contest the presidency in 2023 and that the president is supportive of his bid.
He said, although he is still holding consultations with a cross-section of Nigerians, he noted he intends to build on the legacy of Buhari – a declaration that has drawn the ire of millions of Nigerians – particularly Nigerians who believe Buhari has failed.
