Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has alleged that elements within Nigeria’s political elite are deliberately fueling the Boko Haram insurgency in an attempt to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, the former Abia State governor asserted that terrorism is being weaponised by political actors to destabilise the current government — a strategy, he claimed, that has been used against previous administrations as well.
“The political class is behind Boko Haram,” Kalu said. “They’re using terrorism as a political weapon to fight President Tinubu.”
Pressed for specifics, Kalu pointed fingers at a mix of politicians, influential business figures, and top-ranking civil servants, suggesting that their motivations are rooted in power struggles rather than financial greed.
“This isn’t just about money,” he said. “Some of them want control, they’re after power. What’s happening is a politically driven crisis meant to disrupt governance.”
He added that these actors are exploiting Nigeria’s insecurity for political leverage, warning that such tactics threaten national unity and stability.
Kalu urged all Nigerians, especially those in leadership positions, to prioritise patriotism and the collective good over personal or partisan interests.
“If we truly care about Nigeria and its people, we must put aside our ambitions and work together to fix this country,” he stated.
Kalu speaks on Nigeria borrowing
He raised concerns over the state of Nigeria’s economy, warning that without continued borrowing, the system could face total collapse.
The senator from Abia North stated, “Let me tell you, if this economy does not borrow, it will collapse. That’s the truth. That’s where we are.”
Kalu, a former governor of Abia State, explained that although he’s not directly involved in the review of loan proposals, he understands the necessity of borrowing for economic sustainability.
“Of course, the committee of foreign and local debts used to scrutinise them. I am not a member of that committee. You know these jobs are done mainly at the committee level,” he said.
He also addressed a recent controversy surrounding his appearance at the Senate wearing an outfit printed with “Tinubu for President 2027.” The attire drew public attention and sparked discussions about early politicking.
Responding to the backlash, Kalu proudly attributed the craftsmanship to local artisans.
“Who else would have made that dress other than Aba tailors? It was made in Aba, dyed in Aba and delivered in Aba,” he said.
“It is only Aba people who are hardworking who can do it. It’s very fashionable and I will wear it again.”
