The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has urged Nigerians to back President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, emphasising their potential to transform the nation despite current challenges.
Kalu made this appeal during the formal reception of Chief Kelvin Jombo, a prominent businessman and former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event took place in Abiriba, Abia State, and saw the convergence of key political leaders and supporters.
Speaking at the event, Kalu reaffirmed APC’s status as Nigeria’s largest political party and criticised opposition-led “smear campaigns.” He acknowledged the difficulties in implementing the reforms but maintained that Tinubu’s administration was focused on long-term gains for Nigerians.
“We are the largest party in Nigeria; forget what people are saying in the media. Reforms are very difficult. It took me three years to get a grip of Abia as a governor, and I know that people are hungry. Just give us a little time to put things in order,” he said.
He further encouraged the Abiriba community to support Kelvin Jombo’s future endeavours and reiterated the APC’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Abia and Enugu.
“We’re going to build strong partnerships, and I urge you to support Kelvin Jombo and everything about the party—not just here, but in every other part of Abia and Enugu. We’re not going to allow anybody to deceive us. We’re going to work for the well-being of our people,” he added.
Chief Kelvin Jombo described his defection as divinely inspired. Speaking at the Abiriba Stadium, Jombo expressed optimism on the APC’s ability to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.
“I strongly believe that Abiriba, Nkporo, Arochukwu and Ohafia will fully embrace the APC,” he said, pledging to work for the party’s growth and development.
Other speakers, including Ikechi Anya, who also joined the APC, and Otuwe Orji Kalu, highlighted the party’s growing influence in the region.
The event was lauded as a turning point for the APC in Abiriba. Former commissioner for transport, Nnenna Obewu, described it as historic, emphasizing the role of women in ensuring electoral success.
Abia State APC chairman, Kingsley Onunugbu, assured Jombo and other new members of fruitful participation in the party, noting that Abiriba is a critical zone for APC’s growth.
“We stand here as the people of Ohafia to accept new members into our party as one united and strong body,” said Prince Emma Nwosu, the LGA APC Chairman.
The gathering was attended by several dignitaries, including LG chairman Coach Uche Okwara, zonal women leader, Mrs. Ada Ogbuagu and community leaders from Abiriba and neighboring regions.
