Chief Emeka Charles Kalu, a seasoned politician, is the Director-General, Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG), and until recently an aspirant to the Abia North Senatorial Seat under the Labour Party (LP). Dr. Kalu, the President of Eck Foundation and a power engineer, in this interview with EJIKEME OMENAZU, explains why he withdrew from the Abia North Senate seat u, even as speaks on other crucial issues about governance in Abia State and politics in the nation. Excerpt:
You must have shocked your supporters when you suddenly withdrew from the Abia North Senatorial contest after working on the project for so long. Could you please explain your action?
Politics, for me, has always been about service and not personal ambition. After extensive consultations with my political associates, stakeholders, supporters, and family, I came to the conclusion that stepping down at this point was in the overall interest of the party and the larger political direction we seek for Abia North and the state.
It was not an easy decision because of the overwhelming support from the people, but leadership also requires sacrifice, maturity, and the ability to make difficult decisions when necessary. I remain committed to the ideals and aspirations of our people, and my withdrawal should not be interpreted as a retreat from public service.
Since you are no longer contesting the Abia North, what other options are you considering?
At the moment, my primary focus is on supporting the growth of our party, contributing to good governance in Abia State, and continuing to engage with the people at the grassroots. Public service goes beyond elective office. There are many ways to contribute meaningfully to society, whether through policy support, political mobilisation, youth empowerment, or advisory responsibilities. I remain open to opportunities where I can positively impact the lives of our people.
Many are worried that your withdrawal from the Abia North race will make the contest a walk-over for former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu, the incumbent occupant of that seat, and may negatively impact the performance of the Labour Party in your zone. Why do you think the LP candidate can come out victorious in the zone?
I do not believe any election should be seen as a walk-over in a democracy. Elections are ultimately decided by the people, and the people of Abia North are becoming increasingly conscious of the need for effective representation, accountability, and development-oriented leadership.
The Labour Party still enjoys significant goodwill among the people because of its message of reform and people-centred governance. If the candidate connects well with the grassroots, articulates clear solutions, and campaigns effectively, victory is very possible. Elections should not be based only on political history or name recognition, but on current realities and the expectations of the electorate.
Since you are an associate of Governor Alex Otti, should we be expecting an appointment into one of the top positions if he returns for a second term?
My relationship with Governor Alex Otti is built on mutual respect and shared belief in good governance and development for Abia State. However, appointments are solely at the discretion of the governor and should be based on competence, capacity, and the needs of the administration at any given time. I am not driven by the pursuit of political appointments. My concern is to see Abia continue on the path of progress, transparency, and infrastructural development. If there is any opportunity to serve in any capacity and contribute meaningfully, I will always be willing to do so.
Governor Otti will likely face formidable opponents during the elections. Do you think his performance alone is enough to give him a second term in office?
Performance is always a major factor in democratic governance because people naturally compare promises with visible results. Governor Otti’s administration has made noticeable strides in areas such as infrastructure, sanitation, workers’ welfare, and efforts to reposition the state economically. Of course, elections are political contests, and opposition parties will also present their arguments to the people However, I strongly believe that when a government demonstrates sincerity, competence, and commitment to improving the lives of citizens, the people are more likely to renew its mandate. Ultimately, the decision rests with the electorate.
What do you think should be the major focus during the political campaigns that will soon start?
The campaigns should focus on issues that directly affect the lives of Nigerians and the people of Abia State in particular. Topics such as security, the economy, unemployment, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment should dominate political discussions. Nigerians are tired of politics built on insults, propaganda, and ethnic or religious divisions.
The electorate wants practical solutions, realistic policies, and leaders who can inspire confidence. Political campaigns should therefore be issue-based, peaceful, and centered on the welfare of the people.
Do you foresee a possible realignment among opposition parties like LP, NDC, and ADC in the coming general elections, even after the last-minute defections witnessed in some of the parties?
Politics is dynamic, and alliances or realignments are common, especially when parties and political actors share similar interests or objectives. As we approach future elections, it is possible that opposition parties may seek areas of collaboration to strengthen their chances and provide a stronger alternative to the ruling establishment.
However, such alignments must be built on ideology, shared vision, and commitment to national development rather than mere political convenience. Nigerians are watching closely and expect sincerity from political leaders.
With the rise in terror attacks across the country, how secure would you say citizens are as terrorists and bandits seem to be moving deeper into the South?
The growing insecurity in the country is deeply concerning and requires urgent, coordinated action from all levels of government and security agencies.
Nigerians deserve to feel safe in their homes, communities, and places of work. The spread of terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry into different parts of the country shows that insecurity is no longer a regional problem but a national challenge.
There is a need for improved intelligence gathering, better welfare and equipment for security personnel, stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities, and greater community involvement in security matters. Security must remain a top priority because no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear and instability.
As Nigerians are getting ready for the general elections, what is your advice to them?
My advice to Nigerians is to remain hopeful, peaceful, and actively involved in the democratic process. Elections should not divide us, but should serve as an opportunity to shape the future of our country through informed choices. Citizens should carefully evaluate candidates based on competence, integrity, character, and their ability to deliver good governance.
Young people, in particular, should not lose faith in the democratic process but should participate actively by voting and engaging constructively. Above all, Nigerians should reject violence, vote-buying, and divisive politics, and instead support leaders who are genuinely committed to national unity, security, and economic progress.
How do you see politics in Abia State in particular and the South East in general?
Politics in Abia State and the South East is gradually evolving, and I believe the people are becoming more conscious of the need for performance-driven leadership rather than politics based solely on sentiment, ethnicity, or long-standing political structures. Across the South East, there is a growing demand for accountability, transparency, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and improved governance.
Citizens are now paying closer attention to leaders who can genuinely deliver results and improve their quality of life. In Abia State particularly, the political landscape has witnessed a significant shift in recent years. People are more interested in governance that directly impacts their daily lives, and this has increased political awareness and participation, especially among young people.
There is also a stronger desire for unity, inclusiveness, and development across all zones of the state. In fact, from the feedback across communities and among different groups in the state, it is clear that many Abians are strongly craving the reelection of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti because of what they see as his commitment to good governance, infrastructural renewal, transparency, and people-oriented leadership. Many citizens believe the ongoing reforms and development efforts should be sustained beyond one tenure.
For the South East generally, I believe the region has enormous potential in business, education, technology, and human capital development.
What is needed is visionary leadership, regional cooperation, and sustained investment in security and infrastructure.
The future of politics in the region should be centred on development, economic growth, youth inclusion, and strategic engagement at the national level to ensure the interests of the South East are adequately represented and protected.
