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2023: Nigeria’s unity more important than elections -Kalu
Orji Uzor Kalu
Ahead of 2023 general elections, the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called on Nigerians to give more priority to the unity of the country rather than the ongoing intrigues and strategies over the future polls.
Senator Kalu, who represents Abia North District in the Senate spoke on Wednesday in Abuja while fielding questions from journalists after receiving traditional title of Kibiya (Arrow) of Argungu Emirate in Kebbi State from the Emir, Alhaji Mohammed Mera.
Responding to question on whether he would run for Presidency in 2023, the lawmaker said he prefers to return to the Senate and not contest for the position of President, but stressed that what should be of interest to all Nigerians now is unity of the country and not politics of 2023.
He said: “There must be a United Nigeria first , before talking of 2023. Solving the problems of banditry, insurgency, kidnapping etc, should be the focus of all Nigerians now and not politics of 2023 by politicians.
“All hands have to be on deck in achieving peace and unity in the country. Government alone cannot do it, Nigerians must support the concerted efforts being made by governments at all levels.
“For any politician to become President, governor, senator or whatever in 2023, there must be peace in the land first, the very reason why all politicians and particularly public office holders across political divides should come together in stemming the tide of violence and disunity in the country.”
On the violent secessionist move in the South East, he appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to look passionately on the region.
This was even as he urged South East governors to do more in mitigating the crisis in the region.
“The agitations in the South East need to be addressed or tackled out of politics by way of setting up a committee for required pacification.
“The governors need to redouble their efforts in meeting those behind the agitations and violence just as the President needs to passionately listen to all concerned in the area,” he stressed.
The Chief Whip, however, added that come 2023, he prefers to return to the Senate but if Nigerians want him as President, he will be ready to serve in that capacity.
“I don’t have Presidential ambition ahead of 2023 because my plan for now is to return to the Senate which to me, is a very interesting place to mingle with other Nigerians and serve one’s father’s land,” Kalu added.
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