Orji Uzor Kalu Speaks on Lagos Demolitions, Igbo Presidency

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has reacted to the recent controversial building demolitions carried out by the Lagos State Government, acknowledging the government’s legal right to act but questioning the timing, given the country’s current economic challenges.

Speaking during an exclusive interaction in the programme Politics Today on Channels TV with Seun Okin, the former Abia State Governor noted, “Notices have been given to you. Lagos State Government may be right, but because of the economy, they should not have pulled down the buildings. They should have found a better solution.”

Kalu emphasised that while legal procedures may have been followed, there were moral and economic considerations that should have informed a more compassionate approach. “When you do what you are not supposed to do, you are wrong. So, some of our brothers might also be wrong,” he said, seemingly addressing both the government and affected individuals.

On the issue of political allegiance and the 2027 presidential race, Senator Kalu expressed internal conflict, revealing his commitment to the APC and its chosen candidate, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite personal convictions about the need for an Igbo presidency.

“I’m caged up in a party where I have signed to renominate President Tinubu. The party I belong to has chosen a presidential candidate, who is President Tinubu. Even if I think that it is the time for Igbo presidency, those thoughts are not feasible,” he stated.

“Since the Civil War, the Igbo have carried brilliance yet faced bias. Until Nigeria gives them their due respect and space, true national growth will remain a dream.”