Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a former Commissioner for Information and State Orientation in Ebonyi State, Chief Abia Onyike, has thrown his weight behind the re-election of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC-Abia North).

Speaking in Abakaliki on Thursday during a media chat, Onyike, who also once served as Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), praised Kalu’s contributions in the Senate, and described him as a vital political figure needed for Igbo representation at the federal level.

According to him, Kalu, first elected into the National Assembly in 2019, has proven to be an asset with deep political and legislative insight.

“He is not the type to chase headlines with populist remarks, Orji Kalu works with intent and strategy. His influence within national politics, especially his strong rapport with President Bola Tinubu, gives the South-East a solid voice in national discourse,” Onyike stated.

He highlighted Kalu’s role in spearheading the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) bill, which secured a significant ₦500 billion allocation targeted at critical infrastructure in the region.

Onyike also credited Kalu for facilitating the establishment of a Federal University in Item, Abia State, a move he described as a “transformational win” for local education and youth empowerment.

Beyond politics, Onyike commended Kalu’s longstanding investment in the media landscape.

“He stands out among Igbo businessmen for his bold involvement in the newspaper industry, through platforms like the Daily Sun and New Telegraph, he provides employment to thousands of journalists and strengthens our region’s visibility in national affairs,” he said.

Backing the commissioner’s sentiments, Chief Bekee Orji, a respected elder statesman from Abakaliki and native of Isuochi in Abia State, emphasised the importance of re-electing experienced and influential leaders.

He described Kalu as “a rare combination of political clout and business acumen,” noting that his ventures have created employment for countless Nigerian youths, particularly in the media and private sectors.

Both Onyike and Orji underscored the need for continuity in leadership that delivers, arguing that Kalu’s return to the Senate in 2027 would serve not just Abia North but the broader interest of the Igbo nation within the federation.