Former Abia Governor and Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, says age will not stop him from leading Nigeria, even at 78, just like former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Kalu said he has the experience, mental strength, and competence to lead the country if given the opportunity.
“I still have the ambition and I’m competent to be president of Nigeria. But not in 2027, I’m supporting president Tinubu,” he declared.
When reminded that at 65, he would be 78 if another Southerner doesn’t emerge until 12 years later, Kalu was unfazed.
“Why not, president Trump is 79. Yes, of course. If I’m healthy and God gives me life and good health. The question is not age, it’s competence. What is in my brain I need to deliver. It is not when or where it is how ready you are,” he said.
Kalu also took a swipe at Labour Party’s 2023 flagbearer, Peter Obi, dismissing him as a political lightweight compared to himself.
“He’s not my leader, I am the most important politician from that zone. I have won two states before under PPA. I ran for president before, my 4.9 million votes in 2007 are still there. We achieved a lot with PPA. We had ministers, ambassadors, and other appointments under President Yar’Adua.”
But the outspoken lawmaker refused to dwell further on Obi, saying he would only engage him directly in a debate.
“I’m a member of the APC and I don’t want to discuss Peter Obi. Each time you mention him, I become uncomfortable because I’ve told you before — any day you want to discuss Peter Obi with me, give us two hours, put him there, and put me here. Then we’ll sort it out,” Kalu concluded.
