Kalu demands full recognition of MKO Abiola as former president

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called on former military president Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) to reveal the full details behind the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, urging him to disclose those responsible for preventing its declaration.

The former governor of Abia State also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognise the winner of the annulled election, MKO Abiola, full recognition as ex-president.

Speaking on governance, economic reforms, and national development, Kalu took a strong stance on historical and political matters, particularly the role of the military in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

On Babangida and June 12

Kalu expressed his anticipation for the second volume of Babangida’s memoir, stating that the first edition failed to reveal all the realities behind the annulled election.

“I was present during the events of June 12, and I know what happened. Babangida should call out the names of those responsible for preventing the election declaration.

He agreed with the assertion that Moshood Abiola won that election, adding that there is no doubt about it,” he said.

He insisted that since Abiola won the election, his image should be placed among Nigeria’s past presidents.

“I commend former President Buhari for giving Abiola a posthumous national honour, but I would also appeal to President Tinubu to officially recognise him and place his image where it belongs. This would help bring healing to his family and the nation,” he added.

On the 1966 bloody coup, he defended the Igbo race against the erroneous belief that they masterminded it. “The coup in question was not an Igbo coup; it was a Nigerian coup, executed by the military.”

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On Governance and Economic Reforms

Kalu defended the sitting administration’s reform process, urging Nigerians to remain patient despite economic hardships.

“Many Nigerian presidents who have not performed well have still won a second term. We are appealing to the people to be patient with the reform process. Reforms are difficult but necessary.

“The economy has been cut into pieces, and now we are trying to sew it back together. The president is making wider consultations, both locally and internationally, before taking key economic decisions,” he said.

He noted that economic struggles were not unique to Nigeria, citing similar challenges in London, Canada, and other parts of the world.

The senator emphasized the importance of agricultural investments for economic recovery, urging the government to focus on reclaiming land from bandits and boosting food production.

“Instead of indiscriminately handing out money, funds should be invested in productive sectors like agriculture to ensure sustainable development,” he stated.

Kalu reaffirmed his party’s confidence in securing victory in the next presidential election, dismissing any speculation about fielding a new candidate.

“We are not looking for another presidential candidate outside of our party. We are fully aligned with democratic principles and support the sitting president. The good news is that we will win again in 2027. The president will return, and Nigerians will celebrate with us. That is inevitable,” he declared.

Kalu’s remarks highlighted his firm stance on Nigeria’s political history, governance, and economic direction. His challenge to Babangida on the June 12 election, advocacy for Abiola’s full recognition, and defense of the current administration’s policies underscored his influence in shaping national discourse.