Devolution of Powers; A Way To Secure Future Of Nigeria’s Youths – Orji Uzor Kalu

Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, the former Abia State governor and chieftain of All Progressive Congress, APC, who have been at the forefront of the call for Restructuring for a better Nigeria has given reasons why the country needs to embrace decentralisation of power.

Dr. Kalu, yesterday while delivering a lecture at the University of Calabar, advocated the devolution of power as a way of securing the future of Nigerian youths while arguing that agitations for the decentralisation of power, restructuring and referendum, are all legitimate democratic demands that form part of the conversation that must take place to strengthen democracy.

Speaking on the topic titled; “Devolution of Powers and the future of Nigeria”, Mr. Kalu explained that the call had become necessary because, in the next 15 years, most of those calling the shots in Nigeria today would be too weak to do the sort of things being done today.

Recalling that exploits of people like the late Issac Adaka Boro marked a high point in the quest for Nigerian youths to seek a new meaning in the country, the former governor emphasised that the discourse is coming at a time when Nigeria is undergoing structural transformation, instigated by internal and external developments.

Kalu, however, called for caution amid agitations, saying activisms must be kept within legal limits. “Once agitations are within legal limits, and devoid of insults and name-calling, then, there would be no issues with the law. But doing otherwise means attracting the wrath of the law”.

He also advised the political class to do the needful and be on the good side of posterity, noting that devolution of power had become a hotly debated topic among Nigerians in order to ensure that government grows from the grassroots for the benefit of the people.

“If we fail to do what is necessary today for the sake of our tomorrow, we may live our old age regretting the opportunities that we lost to help this country rise to its full potential and make the sort of impact that our youths want to see.



“If you take a look of all political or constitutional conferences we have had in this country since independence, you will find that devolution of powers had featured prominently but under different guise.

Therefore, there is need for us to fully review the call for devolution of powers within the context of our current realities and as permissible by our constitution. “In my eight years in office as governor of Abia State, we engaged federal authorities on some of these issues including resource control and eventually Sovereign National Conference.

“So, whether we call it resource control, Sovereign National Conference, restructuring or by any other name, we are saying the same thing –that we want power to de-volve so that our states and local governments can have constitutional powers to do much more than they are doing today.

“We make that demand because we agree that there is too much power concentrated at the centre. When people ask me questions like; ‘how were you able to handle the timely payment of salaries of every institution during your eight years of governance? How were you able to achieve so much within your first three years in office? I simply tell them that it was because we didn’t allow power to concentrate at the centre. “We gave the local governments autonomy and the legislature were given full independence to operate.

Every ministry and agency operated with no interference from the centre and that was what made the government functional and active. “If you check, we have a lot of young Nigerians on the streets. Ask what they are doing and you find that many have no jobs.

Many have no means of livelihood. Many don’t seem to have a future and they remain hopeless about tomorrow. Many have no education. “For such people, whatever statements we make about the future make no meaning because even today is not guaranteed for them.

So, you begin to wonder why a country so rich and so blessed like Nigeria cannot use its wealth to create an environment where its own people will feel belonged, loved and participate in development activities. “Why should our own people be destroying oil installations on their own land when government is making efforts to push forward their developments? These are some of the issues that I am usually confronted with when engaged with business associates and friends from foreign countries.

“It means that if the people are lost in any governmental system, then, we no longer talk of democracy but dictatorship. For it is only in a dictatorship that people have no say on how they are governed or over what happens to their resources.

So, I lend my support to all legitimate actions and voice seeking to help us redirect our democracy towards a path where it will serve the interest of the majority and not that of a few. “This is so because in essence, those who are in power are actually holding such power in trust for the people.”

KALU: 2014 CONFAB REPORT IS BEST ANSWER TO RESTRUCTURING

Occasioned by the recent political tension bothering on secession in the Abia state , South Eastern Nigeria forbes rated business mogiul and Former Governor of ABIA state Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu in an exclusive interview with few selected Journalists from the South East in  Camp Neya his Igbere Country home of ABIA State , Kalu  bared  his mind on pertinent issues bothering on the political state of Igbos amongst other national issues. This interview was monitored by Genevieve Nwosu of Hot FM Owerri. 

Enjoy Excerpts :

*Your excellency sir you are known for not being easily swayed from a political position once you are convinced of the rightness of the cause and despite the challenges you have faced in your political career you have remained undaunted and still growing from strength to strength . What is your secret ?*

OUK: It’s is a conviction  a conviction that will benefit majority of our people and that is the cause that I fight, it’s not my cause it’s a cause that majority of Nigerian people will believe in and one which Igbo people will believe in. I’m Igbo by heart and have never had any regret being an Igboman. First I’m an Igbere man before being a Nigerian , before I become an Igbere man I’m a Bende man before being a Bende man and I’m an Abia man then an Igboman . So I have no regrets of being Igbo but we should also be Igbos without sentiments the feelings of others from other parts of the nation must be accommodated.

 

*Sir as a man of wisdom , insight and outspoken especially  in defending the Igbotribe , but sometime ago you did say Igbos have no discipline in terms of politics . In yous words you said “They are good traders; they are goood in anything they do but they do not understand politics and even that they are their worst enemies “. Can you kindly shed more light on this sir?*
OUK : Well you have read about what I said , and it was very simple and it has not changed . I continue to say that Igbos are very good doctors , traders , lawyers , pharmacists and in all kinds of endeavours. But they lack tactics in politics that is why we are in disarray politically . We are good in every other thing we do as a matter of fact we are the salt of the nation without us the nation will not be sweet. But we are not the salt of the nation politically so I will continue saying it and that is the truth . Igbos cannot learn how not to put emotions in politics ,what you want is want what you don’t want is not what you don’t want, so they need to be tactful in dealing with other parts of the nation.  

*Your excellency sir, In a statement credited to the national chairman of the party you joining APC has brought fortunes to the party because of what you do nationally and internationally . What’s you take on this?*

OUK : Well since our national chairman said that , then I cannot be in position to contradict him Chief John Oyegun on his assessment.  I also think that the Commander in chief President Muhammadu Buhari holds the same opinion and most people who can absorb and believe the truth will also believe that I am a plus to the party but not totally everything ,but I am a plus to what they are doing like every other person is a plus to what APC are doing everywhere . We will continue to come together and build a strong platform that will benefit the Igbo people as well as Nigerians at large and all sections of the country including non-Nigerians that live in Nigeria . We will continue to expand the platform to accommodate more people.  to be able to give fruitful and purposeful leadership to our people. His excellency,  there are many agitations by different tribes and groups in the country today . 

*Can you suggest why it is so  what is right to be done to curb these agitations ?*

OUK: I have always insited that  People have a right  to agitate for what they want . I advice both our people and other people as well to base their agitations on the constitutionally of the country . They should be able to know that we have a constitution . A constitution is our binding factor, it’s our binding family book which any agitation should not be far from . Like there is no where in our Constitution for agitations for  restructuring and  and seceding and so forth. So now the nearest we can go and restructuring is to use the Confab report to be presented to the national assembly to be passed into law and that is they only way it can become our law . Of the  24 states must have two third of 36 states so we must have 24 States to say yes to that and I think if President. Muhammadu Buhari and the APC should be very wise then that is the nearest way of stopping the agitation you’re asking me now by implementation of the 2014 Confab report I support that and I would like to go with that . 

*Moving on your excellency sir, you were once the Abia state Governor , do you support restructuring of the country and power devolution ?*

OUK: The 2014 Confab report is restructuring , what they have done is also constitutional than people shouting from pillar to post that they want restructuring and not stating where they actually want the restructuring to come from. I support restructuring based on the 2014 report and also based on giving South East another state . So each South East state comprising of IMO, ENUGU,  ABIA,  ANAMBRA and EBONYI can come together and contribute half of the peole in their local governments and use a place like eititi as another state for them so this is the kind of thing I would to see and it is possible that we can restructure the nation not seceding . Secession is totally out of the it, because everybody should have their Biafra at heart . 

Their Biafra should be; development for the people , good schools,  prompt and full payment of salaries to the workers not half salary thr biafra should also be paving good roads for the people ,it should be children having free medical services just like when I was the governor of the state so people can have acesss to medical care that should be the Biafra of what is in our head not the biafra ideology of carrying guns and using violent insulting  languages that threaten security and unity of thr nation it is out of fashion.  So now the Biafra we would like to see is one which everybody is productive where more youths will go to work , where youths will be engaged in something meaningful not loitering the streets .

So  this is the kind of thing we would love to see. 

*With the PDP crisis being resolved , some people are jittery if APC will retain power coke 2019 . His exellency do you agree on this ?*

 OUK : I see absolutely nothing hindering the APC from winning the  elections at both the federal and state levels most especially in our own state Abia. Here Abia is already an APC state when you go round and sample their opinions . Since I declared for the party the place is gradually turning back and they know that this where the truth lies . There is light here in the APC after running through darkness . The Abia people and indeed the Nigerian people will continue to see APC rising very well .

*Sir as an international business Mogul and Forbes rated billionaire who also owes businesses in Nigeria, in Africa and beyond. How was the economic recession affected you?*

 

OUK: Well truly the economic recession has affected me heavily , because it’s a general issue when you had people who were in government and they broke and looted the national treasury then then the Nigerian people would not have money avaiable to work . The treasury was looted by the last administration they opened the Central Bank and looted the money there is nothing to hide about that .Nigerians should also realise that if this current administration did take over we could have been in a very terrible situation like we have in Venezuela today . The money they claimed was available was false , it was already looted . Basically I also support questioning the people that looted the country but I want President Buhari to follow due process in doing that . I don’t support going in the night and  breaking into the house of the judge of a supreme court , going to break into the house of the juge of an appeal court , going to break into the house of a judge in Umuahia,  Enugu, Sokoto or Oshogbo these are justices of a supreme court ,we have within our law how to prosecute these people . If the NJC has  investigated and finds them wanting the DSS or EFCC  can arrest them but let the due process of the NJC be followed . They should be able to show that we are acting within the contents of our law. Once write go out of our law it means we have a problem.

*Your excellency sir, what inspired you to begin the annual JCI ( Junior Chamber International Conference ) Youth summit ?*
OUK: It has always been my opinion that the youths must have a role to play . They have been in partnership with the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation and we are very proud of them . That is they can come to  Igbere and march for peace and preach that peace is possible and we also believe that peace is possible and this is where we are so I equally  believe that what they are peeaching is what every  Nigerian whether you are from Yoruba. Igbo , Fulani,  Urohbo, Ijaw, Ibibio, Efik, Hausa that they as individuals must also parcipate that peace is possible . That’s why I am delighted to start the annual programme with them every year here in Igbere . 

 

*Finally sir, what’s your advice to the good people of Abia ?*

OUK : My advice is very simple ans easy to understand They should support the Governor that is on seat now , it’s not yet time to judge the Governor . Let us be patient to see who he truly is . Let us see his final leadership on election we shall judge him . Let people judge Leaders by the election day . Let Abians wear their gadgets and be determined that lectionary rigging should no longer be tolerated and existent here in Abia . We are do not get dividend of democracy in Nigeria because few people find their way to rig the election . Once they rig the election they get into power ans once they are in power they are no longer interested in the caterering for the people.  So everybody should realise that democracy is a very expensive thing . They should stop thinking that they are doing the man they are voting for a favour , they should see it as doing themselves the favour because they are mortgaging their future for four years on one person. So they must be able to stand up and do what is right.

*Thank you so much your excellency sir for the interview*

OUK : It’s my pleasure.

Kalu assures Nkporo community of projects as many decamp to APC.

ABIA-  Political reallignment  in Nkporo community of Ohafia local government was yesterday at its peak as more than 10,000 grassroot politicians drawn majorly from People’s Democratic Party, PDP and Peoples Progressive Alliance,PPA decamped to All Progressive Congress, APC.
The denouncement of their earlier political party took place during the APC  sensitization rally organized by an APC chieftain, Chief Nnamdi Iroh Orji in Nkporo.

This is even as the former governor of Abia State, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu who was present to receive the decampees assured the community of continuous attraction of projects to the state through the APC.
Recalling  his achievements during his tenure as governor of the state, Kalu said there was  free education programme , prompt payment of salaries , free medical services among others. 
He described as unfortunate the owing of workers salaries and added that it was an  issue that never happened during his tenure as governor .  
He urged the people to remain commited in working towards the progress of the party in their local government and the state at large. He  also reassured the people  APC’s commitment  and resolve under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to execute federal projects in the communities and others in the South East at large. 

Ealier in his welcome address, the organizer, Chief Nnamdi Orji  described the PDP led state government  as a collosal failure He decried the terrible state of the road in the community despite having an indigene of the community as deputy governor.He insisted  it is only the APC that can salvage the current dilemma the people are facing and urged the new members to avoid sentiments and work for total change in the state.

Some of the new members led by the former deputy chairman of Ohafia local government ,Hon.Chukwu Samson Orji expressed their joy in identifying with the APC adding that it is the beginning of new dawn in Abia state.

The rally also had in  attendance  other APC stakeholders such as Abia state APC Chairman Hon. Donatus Nwanpka represented by the state organising secretary , Hon. Alex Ukaiwo , Chief Dan Okeke and APC Chairman Ohafia LGA Engr. Emeka Yaweh.

Abia State Mis-Spent Their Bail Out Funds:- NLC

ABIA, BAYELSA, EBONYI, EKITI, IMO, KOGI, BENUE, OSUN, ONDO and ZAMFARA.

TEN states have misspent the bail out funds and the Paris Club refund, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) said yesterday.

The NLC made good its threat to “Name and Shame”states that refused to pay workers or make public the bailout funds and the Paris Club refund they got.

The congress also warned the government against approving another increase in electricity tariff, saying it will mobilise its affiliates, social partners and other Nigerians to resist any further increase when Nigerians were yet to get a good service foe the previous increase, which has been declared illegal by the court.

NLC President Ayuba Wabba, who spoke at the National Executive Council meeting of the Non Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) in Abuja, said six of the 10 states were in a terrible situation, pointing out that the congress had directed all states chapters whose members are owed more than three months salaries to declare an industrial action.

While reacting to President Muhammadu Buhari’s disappointment with the governors over the utilisation of the funds, Wabba had told The Nation that the congress was compiling a list of governors who failed to spend the funds on workers’ salaries.

Wabba said: “Out of the 36 states, we have 10 bad case scenario and out of this 10, we have six terrible ones. We have promised to name and shame them.

Those states include Imo that has been paying workers salaries in percentage and has not declared utilisation of the bail out fund and Paris Club refund. It is part of the states that ICPC has mentioned in fund diversion.“They paid 40 percent pension to their pensioners without their consent and provided a form for them to sign under duress. That is not allowed in law.

We have Bayelsa, which has between five to 10 months arrears.

Ondo is owing between four and six,

Ekiti (five to eight),

Benue (Five to Eight) and

Kogi, which is the worst case scenario. “We have three categories of workers in Kogi. We have 40 per cent that are being paid up to date, we have 25 per cent that has not been paid between eight and 16 months and another 25 per cent that has not been paid between eight and 21 months. In all, the sectors, they have categorised the workers into three categories.

“We also have the case of Osun which is also paying in percentage, but is up to date.

Ebonyi, unilaterally, without discussion with the union tried to reduce the salaries by certain percentage and have also not made available records of utilisation of the Paris Club refund.

“We have the case of Zamfara, which is the only state that has not implemented the minimum wage and all attempt (including agreements they have signed) to get them to make available records of utilisation of those funds have failed.

The last one is, Abia which has a problem with the parastatals. On the average, other states are above board.

The NLC chief went on: “As I speak to you, both Zamfara and Benue are on strike and I am aware that Kogi has issued a notice, which is in conformity with the decision we took at our last NEC meeting that any state with liability of more than three months should start an action and we will be there to support them.”

Speaking on the statement credited to the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Power that one of the problem in the power sector was low electricity tariff, Wabba said workers will not accept any further increase in tariff.

©The Nation Newspaper

​Nigerian Youths need patriotism to build a peaceful and united Nigeria :- By Ojukwu Remigius

So many things have been written and said about the worsening state of Nigeria’s unity and it’s devastating effects on the youths. Following the proliferating rate of violence, divisive utterances against our nation and the largely involvement of our youths in these activities, we are really not certain of what the destiny of Nigeria would be should these occurrences persist.

Unarguably, Nigerian youths are considered as one of the most creative and talented youths in the world due to their ability to make things from nothing in an environment that is devoid of conduciveness. This is why some individuals who are determined to disrupting the peace and tranquillity of our nation are employing them with view of nourishing their selfish interests. No youth will be enticed by these unscrupulous individuals, if he or she has a sound understanding of patriotism and it’s importance in national unity. Patriotism is the principal trait that is  absent in most of the Nigerian youths that has aided their being used to work against their own nation. 

It’s only an alien that will not understand that all the abnormalities which have engulfed Nigeria today such as terrorism in the northeast by Boko Haram , agitation for sovereign state of Biafra in the southeast by Nnamdi Kanu’s led IPOB, destruction of oil installation in the Niger Delta by the militants, the issuance of quite notice to the Igbos in the north by the Area youths are as a result of dearth of patriotism.  It is important to note that Nigeria’s problem with disunity should not be attributed to its being too large or multiethnic. The problem of Nigeria is Nigerians. Every Nigerian ought to correct his/herself as the problems of our nation reside in us. Altruism should be instilled in us with extermination of tribal and religious sentiment .  So,  the South will understand that anything that affects the North also affects them and the North will know that their happiness is incomplete when the South is saddened. Patriotism and altruism are what we need as a people to replace religious and tribal differences that inhibited our nation’s progress. 
In the presence of these, no Nigerian youth is expected to give support to disintegration of the nation or other activities that are hostile to our national unity. As a Nigerian youth , who desires greatness in life, the unity of Nigeria should be very crucial to you as its greatness and failure will definitely affect your dreams and aspirations. When you give to be used destroy lives and properties, the nation will be in turmoil and it will create anxiety that will force investors to pull out their investments -the nation will suffer economically and unemployment will surface. And who are the recipients of unemployment and its effects -the youths. Does harsh economy differentiate Christians from the Muslims? Does it recognize an Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba? Everyone will be affected. What will you call a man who was born by Nigerians in Nigeria but claim not be a Nigerian even when he is in possession of the Nigerian passport?  Before you accept his ideology, find out his interests. 

Nigerian youths should endeavor to think for themselves (to support national unity) and stop allowing people to use them to vitalise their selfishness by influencing them negatively. If you are in support of national unity, let the light of your love shine on the secessionists for them to see goodness in unity as some of them are being misleading. 
We can do these to show patriotism. Nigerian youths, at this moment,  we have to be Nigerians. It is calling on us to transfer our individual assets, values and talents into building a united Nigeria with aim of facilitating economic and political stability. If you have not done anything to straighten the unity of Nigeria as a youth, you need nationalisation so as become a true Nigerian. Your contribution to building a united Nigeria is too relevant to jettison with -you represent the pillar of the house called Nigeria. So,  you can make or mar Nigeria based on how you have accepted to manage the hate speeches and divisive utterances against our nation . Do not allow them to precipitate into violence .
We have come a long way. We have have flown the air like birds and swum the sea like fishes when fought , but have yet to learn how to learn simple act of walking the earth as like brothers . We must all build national unity, build all revolutionary forces , into one powerful wave to sweep away our main enemies poverty, underutilization of human resources, inequality in wealth distribution, unemployment. 

Let us have love for Nigeria and be willing to do anything to protect her interest with belief that no individual or institution that is bigger than Nigeria .

We should be mindful of who we address as our mentors since many are set to control the mindsets of the youths with their unguided utterances with aim of causing disunity in the country to enrich their selfish interests. 
Let it be clear that a nation is what its citizens have made it to be. Nigeria will never be great without her citizens coming together to make it happen. And the name you give to your dog is what the people will call it. You are an animal when you call your country a zoo and a terrorist when you kill because of tribal and religious sentiment. 

It is intensely painful seeing some ethnic ,religious and political leaders derive pleasure in creating havoc in our society by using gullible Nigerian youths who are eager to die for what they do not understand. Who do want to die for?  Is the man who wants to use you to gain popularity?  Be wise. How come their children are not part of the struggle?  Why did they send their children abroad to acquire the best education and allow our education system to decay?  The only indisputable answer to these questions is that they want to destroy your destiny so as to give room for their well educated children to  lead you. And it  highlights how they cherish their children. 

If Nigerian youths can unite against tribe and religion for love and national unity,  Nigeria’s economy will be the biggest in the world . Nigerian youths should refuse to be used against the unity and prosperity of their nation as their greatness is dependent on the unity and progress of their country. 

Comr Ojukwu Remigius 
Ambassador for National Unity

Secretary Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN

Kalu’s 2017 JCI Summit Ends In Style

2017 Junior Chamber International Conference and Youth Summit, hosted by former Abia governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, in his Camp Neya countryhome in Igbere, ended on Sunday, in glamorous style.
The event, which kicked off on Friday, September 15, 2017, was well-attended by members of Ikoyi JCI and several youth organisations.
Highlights of the three-day event were lectures, peace rally and certificate of attendance presentations.
Delivering his lecture titled  “The role of an active youth in the society,” during the opening ceremony held at auditorium of Neya Camp,  Kalu charged the youths to focus on their passion because it is where their destiny lies.

He said “youths must work hard, stay hard, plan hard, save themselves from  the headache of gossiping, the headache of creating news that are false and the headache of having the urge to pull people down.” 
 Kalu recounted his days as a student and how he emerged  Student Union president, despite being a Christian student in a university with Muslim majority.
“In the University of Maiduguri, we had  99 percent nothern Muslims and a christian like me, who belonged to an infinitesimal ratio was elected. Sometimes, I try to figure out when things will return to normality; when we will have leadership without sentiment,” he added.
The audience were thrilled when the former governor went practical by telling his life stories. In amazement, the youths listened to him as he shared his childhood experiences and his experiences as Abia state governor.
He advised the youths to stay clear of get-rich-quick syndrome and made efforts to disabuse their minds  against desperation in attaining life success. The former governor maintained that time, hardwork and consistency is important in the ride to success.

“I have been in business for over 30 years. I started with a  small funiture company and some other  small businesses. It is  not that these businesses all  grew in a day. Every business need time, patience, hardwork and consistency. In addition, don’t think you are still young to contribute to the nation’s economic growth. Everybody, including  the youths, have a role to play in the economic development of our nation.” he said.
Kalu had earlier led the youths on a peace rally, in response to recent hostilities in the South East. Participants of the peaceful demonstration, which was reported beyond the country,  wore white uniform.
Earlier, in his welcome address,  the JCI summit Coordinator, JCI Senator Chibuike Akujobi  thanked  the 2017 JCI Ikoyi President, Mr. Chikelue Oguejiofor and  JCI 2017 National President for honouring the event and taking the group to a higher height.
 Akujobi also expressed JCI’s gratitude to the former governor for hosting the annual summit.

​Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu preaches peace at JCI annual summit.

Members of the Junior Chamber International a worldwide federation of Active Youths from all parts of Nigeria coverged in their large  numbers in Igbere , ABIA state in the prestigious country home camp neya the of emmient business man and former Governor of ABIA State Dr . Orji Uzor Kalu for their annual Youth Summit . 

The event which came at no better time in the midst of the secession crisis in the state was aimed at preaching peace and unity in the country and the world at large. 
The likewise youthful Forbes rated billionaire and former Governor of Abia state in his usual humble and active nature made himself readily available to host the Youths in his residence through out the 3 day event.

The summit kicked off with the former Governor and politician  who just returned from the United States took time out of his usual busy schedule to welcome the members of the JCI into his residence, this was folllowed by a dinner in which the elated members of the organization who couldn’t contain their joy of having the presence of the former Governor in their midst joined him to the dinner.  

Like the saying goes “Heatlh is wealth ” Dr. Kalu who is famously known for his love for sporting activities which was proved with his success with the Enyimba football club as former Governor of the state personally took the members of the JCI on morning exercise drills and a peace walk led by the former Governor hinself aimed at promoting peace. 

After the exercise Dr. Kalu took sometime to address the youths on major issues confronting the country which included the respect for the rule of law and the need to obey court orders and issue which caused crisis in the state.  He also talked about his political travails which came as result of him standing for the truth .

Kalu expressed his joy of seeing Nigerian youths standing for peace and unity , he encouraged them to aspire for greatness and take the future now.

​Orji Uzor Kalu sues for peace calls for respect of constituted Authority .

Former Governor of Abia State and APC South East Chieftain has called on the the IPOB Youths to remain law abiding as he consults with the Federal Authorities and IPOB stakeholders towards finding a common ground to the brewing crisis  in Abia state involving confrontations between the IPOB youths and the Federal security forces. 

In a statement issued yesterday from Abuja,  Kalu who just returned from the United states said that he has been briefed about the crisis and has switftly begun consultations with Federal Authorities and leaders of the IPOB  towards brringing calm back to the region .and he calls on both parties to respect the rule of law .
He described the unfolding events as very unfortunate to have degenerated to this level happening in not just the South East region but in his own state which he once governed for eight years, that the Southeast having yet to be fully recovered from the losses of the civil war cannot afford to subjected to another round of loss of human lives and properties . He called for calm and stay of actions from both parties that such crisis if not checkmated may escalate  nationwide. 

The former Governor recalled that in democracy every group has its fundemental right to express their grievances but such action must follow due process in line with the constitution of the country to avoid breakdown of law and order. 

The APC chieftain reintrates the need for peace , that dialogue remains the best solution to solving grievances , while also calling the need to respect the court orders and pronouncements.

​South East unrest: Kalu sues for peace,commiserates with bereaved families.

Worried over the alarming situation following the military  deployment in the South East, former governor of Abia State , Dr Orji Uzor Kalu has appealed for sustainable peace in the South East region in the interest of the country
He decried the needless loss of lives in Abia state  and  also commiserated  with the families of the bereaved .

In a released statement, Kalu who just returned from United States yesterday said he was disturbed after receiving briefs of the brewing  crisis in the South East.

He disclosed  his resolve to engage in extensive consultations to see to the end of the unrest and fear the alleged army incursions in many areas of Abia state has created.
He also called on the the members of Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB to remain law abiding as he consults with the federal authorities and IPOB stakeholders towards finding a common ground to the alarming crisis  .

He regretted that the unimaginable situations are happening in a state he once governed for eight years and added that South East being a special economic zone does not need such crisis.
Kalu emphasized on  the need for peace , adding that dialogue remains the best solution to solving grievances.

He also said further actions by the military   would “inflict 

suffering on the people who were already bearing the brunt of their presence.”
The former governor  recalled that Igbo  people are known for their peaceful disposition and urged the youths  not to dymistify this  long identity by making any attempt to take laws into their hands.

He said: “It is democratic for every individual or group to express their grievances at every point in time, but such actions must also follow due process in line with the constitution of the country to avoid breakdown of law and order. 

“When I was governor, there were also Biafra agitations in the state but I always ensured that as the Chief security  Officer of the state,  the agitators  must express their grievances within the ambit of the law so as not to infringe the rights of others.  Most especially those going about their legitimate businesses. 

“To ensure that the future is not worse than it is today and to prepare for a great and promising future , we must not forget that we are yet to recover from the loses of the civil war. Therefore, we cannot afford the mistake of subjecting ourselves to another round of loss of human lives and properties . We  must also  recognise the unique environment of South East and its economic importance.” He noted

While commiserating with families of the bereaved ,Kalu also urged IPOB youths to be law abiding  and advised Nigerian security forces to ensure that the lives of the citizens are protected by halting any activity that would lead to further loss of lives in the state.

YLAN NIGERIA CONDEMNS THE ETHNIC CLEANSING IN SOUTH EAST

The National President of Young Leadership Association of Nigeria (YLAN), Comrade Kabiru Duhu and his Executives after a close door meeting have added their voice to millions of stakeholders to condemn recent unrest and hate speeches.

 

The recent development on the national disunity, which is as result of heightened tension on hate speeches and disintegration being promoted by some individuals across the country,  has drawn the attentions of the Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN to calling on all the parties involved to exercise extreme caution to avoid putting the situation out of control. It is obviously noted that  the Nigerian youths are the tools in the hands of some individuals who are determined to disrupting the peace and tranquillity of Nigeria to protect their selfish interest .
YLAN as an organisation that is poised to promote youth participation in peace and nation building has condemned this inimical act of indecency and hereby implore the Nigerian youths to aloof themselves from being used by unscrupulous politicians to  perpetrate evil in our nation which our founding fathers laboured to keep in unity. Nigeria is one of the greatest nations in the world and making her strength obvious, depends on our contributions to ensuring unity among us irrespective of our religious and ethnic inclination. 

No nation or society will be developed in an atmosphere of rancour. This should be understood for the youths to refrain from any form of violence in the interest of peace and national development as well as channelling their energy towards Building a prosperous Nigeria where everyone will be pleased to dwell. We can only achieve this in presence of love, peace and unity as call for disintegration, destruction of lives and properties will not be helpful to anybody. Unarguably, we are better in unity than disunity. 
Let the killings and hate speeches cease. Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN equally wants to employ this opportunity to advise the Government at all levels to include the Youths in their Peace Building efforts as well as making them part of the decision-making in Nigeria ,if our nation’s drive towards sustainable peace and national unity will be possible.

Long live Young Leadership Association of Nigeria(YLAN). 

Long live Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Comrade Ojukwu Remigius 

National Secretary.

Press Release: YLAN-Nigeria Calls For Extreme Caution To Avoid Putting The Situation Out Of Control.

YOUNG LEADERSHP ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA YLAN 

PRESS RELEASE

The recent development on the national disunity, which is as result of heightened tension on hate speeches and disintegration being promoted by some individuals across the country,  has drawn the attentions of the Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN to calling on all the parties involved to exercise extreme caution to avoid putting the situation out of control. 
It is obviously noted that  the Nigerian youths are the tools in the hands of some individuals who are determined to disrupting the peace and tranquillity of Nigeria to protect their selfish interest .

YLAN as an organisation that is poised to promote youth participation in peace and nation building has condemned this inimical act of indecency and hereby implore the Nigerian youths to aloof themselves from being used by unscrupulous politicians to  perpetrate evil in our nation which our founding fathers laboured to keep in unity. 

Nigeria is one of the greatest nations in the world and making her strength obvious, depends on our contributions to ensuring unity among us irrespective of our religious and ethnic inclination. 

No nation or society will be developed in an atmosphere rancour. This should be understood for the youths to refrain from any form of violence in the interest of peace and national development as well as channelling their energy towards building a prosperous Nigeria where everyone will be pleased to dwell. 

We can only achieve this in presence of love, peace and unity as call for disintegration, destruction of lives and properties will not be helpful to anybody. Unarguably, we are better in unity than disunity. Let the killings and hate speeches cease. 

Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN equally wants to employ this opportunity to advise the government of all levels to include the youths in their peace building efforts as well as making them part of the decision-making in Nigeria ,if our nation’s drive towards sustainable peace and national unity will be possible. 

God bless Nigeria 
Comr Ojukwu Remigius (Ambassador for National Unity)

National Secretary Young Leadership Association of Nigeria YLAN

Peace Is Priceless; Abia YLAN Appeals For Peace, and For Normalcy To Return To Abia.

Press Release 

Young Leadership Association of Nigeria-YLAN, Abia State Chapter… 

Peace Is Priceless; Abia YLAN Appeals For Peace, and For Normalcy To Return To Abia.

Following the much publicised events that has taken place in Abia State lately, the leadership of the Young Leadership Association of Nigeria-YLAN, Abia State Chapter are using this medium to appeal to Abians especially the youths for restraint and show of good sportsmanship.

Maturity is the ability to muster calm in instances of unwanted circumstances as has been experienced within this period in our State.

We have a responsible government and chief security officer of this state, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu who is working round the clock with his officials in collaboration with the Military and other security agencies to reach an understanding that will ensure that total peace and harmony and Normalcy returns in God’s own State.

For whatever experience or grievance’s we might have, it is not enough to take laws into our hands as the accompanying collateral damage may be too diverstating to cushion.

As a result, we enjoin all the peace loving Abians to go about their legitimate businesses as normalcy have returned to all corners of the state.

We also appeal to Media practitioners to stop parading unsubstantiated fake news that may further heat up the already tensed nerves. While at the same time appealing to the Federal Government of Nigeria to apply dialogue to address certain burning National issues.

Journalism is a noble profession for noble men and women and there should be applied with all iota of nobility to attain state equilibrium at all times.

Let us apply all levels of approach within the ambits of the law to address any perceived grievances as it is the only panacea to ensuring a stable, progressive and prosperous state and Nation.

Pls note that our state Media/PRO was in the meeting between The Military and the State Deputy Governor and the Army has agreed to withdraw their men for pease to return Abia. 

We also want to assure Abians that YLAN  would not relent in promoting Peace, Love, and Justice. 

Long Live Abia State

Long live YLAN

Long live Federal republic of Nigeria.
Engr Emma Uche Adimoha 

(State Rep/South-east PRO) 
Eucharia Pureheart Nwogu 

(State Secretary) 
Comrade Amos Kalu 

(State Media/PRO)

Dr Uzor Kalu to host JCI Annual Youth Summit

Former Governor of Abia State and popular philanthropist, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, will host the 2017 Junior Chamber International Conference and Youth Summit through his foundation, Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, in Neya Camp, Igbere, Abia State.

This was disclosed on Wednesday in a statement by Kalu’s Special Assistant, Peter Eze.

Eze said the event, which comes up between September 15 and 17, will be attended by many youths drawn from the JCI, youth organizations and other prominent Nigerians.
According to Eze, the aim of the three-day summit is to re-engineer the mindsets of the youths towards productivity, inculcate and promote leadership values among others.
He further disclosed that the former governor, who also doubles as the Keynote Speaker, will deliver a paper on: “Role of an Active Youth in the Society.”

In a similar statement, the summit Coordinator, Senator Chibuike Agujobi, has said it is “targeted at providing lasting benefits to delegates, partners, general public and every young person that will take advantage to be part either through physical participation or via any of the social media outlets or television broadcast”.

According to Agujobi: “Through this summit, young Nigerians will have the opportunity to participate in real-life advocacy, service activities, policy shaping experience, community peace work, that will prepare them for living life in the 21st century and also provide critical workforce readiness skills.”

Agujobi also explained that by the end of the summit, he is hopeful it will provide inspiration for young people to become “leaders, mentors, educators, advocates and true citizens of Nigeria”.

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2019: Kalu Wants Buhari, Oyegun To Reconcile APC

Before the 2019 elections set in, former Abia State governor and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Orji Kalu, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari and APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, to constitute a special committee to reconcile aggrieved members of the party.

He said party misunderstandings are best handled through internal reconciliation.

Kalu asked Buhari to participate fully in the affairs of the APC in order to understand the concerns of party faithful and other stakeholders, as the president has the capacity to douse the tension in the party.

He made the statement in London Tuesday while hosting the “OUK FANS CLUB UK” at his residence.

The former governor urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to take active part in politics by contributing to national discourse through position papers, articles and opinions, stressing that Nigerians are known for their intellectual capacity.

Speaking against the backdrop of recent statements credited to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Minister of Women Affairs, Sen. Aisha Al-Hassan, Kalu called for truce in the interest of Nigeria’s growing democracy, adding that the APC was poised to take the country to enviable heights while providing succour for the masses.

He said, ” Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is a household name in national politics and as such, his grievances should be deeply looked into by the party for the sake of building a more inclusive and integrated party.

“In a democratic set up, people should be allowed to say their minds without fear and Mr. President has sustained this gesture since he assumed office, which is obvious with the level of maturity and patriotism displayed by him, despite the comments of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Sen. Aisha Al-Hassan and others.
“The President deserves commendation for upholding the tenets of democracy.

“The media, of which I am a part, should not over heat the polity with captions and stories that will polarise the APC led government.

“The federal government remains committed and focused in its resolve to make life meaningful for the people”.

Kalu emphasised that the President Muhammadu Buhari -led administration should be applauded for restoring Nigeria’s lost glory in all facets of life.

He further said, “The government has continually rolled out social investments through its N-Power initiative in a bid to scale down development to the grassroots.
“Also, worthy of commendation is the ability of the President to curb insurgency and restore peace in the North East.

“The fight against corruption, restoration of discipline in civil and public service and redemption of Nigeria’s image in the international community are verifiable achievements of Mr. President.

“To be fair, the current APC government has done well but Nigerians are yearning for more’’
Kalu, who cautioned politicians against making inflammatory statements, promised to reach out to Odigie-Oyegun for the sake of unity in the party.

STOP ATTACKING ME, ADDRESS THE ISSUES WE RAISED, EMEKA KALU REPLIES GOV. IKPEAZU

A governorship aspirant for the 2015 elections in Abia State, Chief Emeka Kalu has said that he has no qualms with the Abia State government, other than the fact that he wants the right thing to be done.

Kalu who spoke with jungle journalist correspondent on the phone, stated that it was unethical for the government to resort to personal attacks, first against Dr Alex Otti and now himself, simply because they want to see the State funds used properly to serve the interests of Abians and not diverted to personal use.

In his response to media reports emanating from the government against his person, Kalu argued: “First of all let me address this issue of communication with Gov Ikpeazu. As an individual, I respect every political office that has to do with the government. Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s media aides are talking about secret messages, when there is nothing secret there.

“In the trending response, you purportedly alleged that I sent you a text message making requests to organize rally and a press release in support of your government, amidst other inconsequential and frivolous claims; but you failed to state if in the said text message to you, whether I specifically demanded for money or any form of selfish favour. Of course, I did not ask you for money or any form of favour as I will never do such and not even to a man that I am still able to give pocket money, irrespective of the fact that he is sitting comfortably on the resources of our dear state – Abia. I have the constitutional right to call or text the Governor, to give him my opinion and perspective on how I believe is the best way to make Abia great again, but that is not even the bone of contention. Why would they always keep calling the name of the former Governor of Abia state Dr Orji. Uzo Kalu when anyone speaks ,on sensitive issues that can stampede the development of the state why ?”

“I have the capacity to ask questions about our dear state, I am continually asking the questions, because there is no clear part for repayment of the said loans”. When there are no checks and balances in place…

“I live in a country where politics is regarded as an avenue to serve humanity and not to immerse wealth to the detriment of the people; therefore, whenever you hear from me, do not panic and feel like I have come to ask for Favours.”

On whether he has been asking for favour from the Abia governor, Kalu replied; “I have never for one day asked the governor for any contract or anything that has a financial gain in Abia, what I am doing for Abians is solely for the interest of the coming generation, our children. I am content and fully sustained with what God has blessed me with and I do very well both here in the United States and other nations where we conduct our business. So the idea of secret messages shouldn’t come up at all. I have never asked for favour and will never ask Gov. Ikpeazu, I only need answers to my questions”.