Orji Uzor Kalu Declares Himself the Most Influential Politician in the South East, Challenges Peter Obi to Live Debate

Former Governor of Abia State and current Senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, has boldly declared himself the most important politician in Nigeria’s South East region, dismissing claims that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, holds greater political influence.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Kalu asserted that his long-standing political career and accomplishments place him above Obi in terms of impact and leadership within the region.

“Peter is not my leader. I’m the most important politician from that zone. I have won two states before under the PPA. I have run for president before. My 4.9 million votes are still there since 2007,” Kalu said confidently.

Highlighting his political journey, Kalu noted that his influence goes beyond Abia State, recalling his active role during the administration of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, where his party, the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), secured several key appointments.

“I achieved a lot with PPA. We had ministers, ambassadors, and several appointments under President Yar’Adua,” he added.

Kalu also challenged Peter Obi to a live televised debate, saying both of them should meet face-to-face before the Nigerian public to prove who truly has more political weight.

“Arrange in your studio a meeting between me and Peter Obi. Put two of us in the same place,” he said.

His bold declaration has stirred mixed reactions across political circles and social media, with supporters of both leaders engaging in heated discussions over who genuinely wields greater influence in the South East.