Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has said he will leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) if President Bola Tinubu ever disrespects opposition parties or the Catholic Church.
According to daily post,Kalu made the statement during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. According to him, claims that Tinubu insulted Catholic bishops are false.
He insisted that the President respects both the opposition and the Catholic Church. Therefore, he believes Tinubu would never deliberately make comments that undermine either group.
Kalu said he has no reason to remain in the APC if the President ever acts differently. He stressed that respect for democratic institutions and religious bodies remains important to him.
However, the senator noted that respecting the opposition does not mean the ruling party should make elections easy for rival political parties. He said political competition should remain strong, provided it follows democratic principles.
Kalu also dismissed calls for Tinubu to apologise over the recent controversy. He argued that the President did not make any statement that warranted an apology.
In addition, he praised the Catholic Church for its role in promoting accountability in Nigeria. He said Catholic bishops have consistently spoken on national issues and should continue to offer constructive guidance.
The former governor also clarified that comments made by Cardinal John Onaiyekan should not automatically be regarded as the official position of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria. According to him, individual clerics are free to express their personal opinions.
Speaking on Tinubu’s administration, Kalu said the President has already achieved about 65 percent of his goals. He added that more progress is expected as the government continues to implement its policies.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, Kalu expressed confidence in the APC’s chances. He argued that the opposition remains divided and is yet to present a united front capable of challenging the ruling party.
