Uko Ndukwe Nkole, the Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate for Abia North Senatorial District in the 2027 election, has called on incumbent Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to withdraw from the Senate race and seek the presidency instead. Nkole, a former member of the House of Representatives, made this appeal during an interaction with journalists at his country home in Abam Onyerubi, Arochukwu Local Government Area. He believes Kalu, having served as Abia State governor and currently representing Abia North in the Senate, should aim for a higher political office.
Nkole drew inspiration from President Bola Tinubu's trajectory, who was Lagos State governor before serving in the Senate and later becoming president. He argued that Kalu, who was Abia governor while Tinubu was governor of Lagos, should similarly seek the presidency rather than pursue another Senate term. Kalu has represented Abia North in the Senate since 2019 and is the All Progressives Congress candidate for the district in the 2027 election.
Nkole also urged the Labour Party candidate for Abia North, David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, to withdraw from the contest, emphasizing the importance of legislative experience for voters. He highlighted his 20 years of public service, comprising 12 years as a federal public servant and eight years as a federal legislator, which he believes have prepared him for the Senate. Nkole aims to expand his achievements in the House of Representatives to the Senate.
Nkole acknowledged the political standing and popularity of Kalu and Ogba, describing both as his rivals whom he respects. He referred to their previous electoral contests and urged voters to cast their ballots and protect them through the collation process to ensure that their votes count. Nkole expressed confidence in the prospects of NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Nkole attributed the challenges facing Obi to "man-made" factors and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to address anomalies and challenges experienced during the Osun State governorship election ahead of the 2027 general elections. He believes such measures are necessary to ensure a credible electoral process in 2027.
Nkole's aspiration for the Senate is driven by his desire to complete projects he facilitated but were not followed up for completion by his successors. He stated that his footprints have not been matched and urged Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to strive to actualize projects in Abia North and hand over the remaining ones to him in the next Senate.
The call by Nkole adds to the growing interest in the 2027 election, with various candidates vying for positions. The election is expected to be a significant event in Nigeria's democratic process, with the Independent National Electoral Commission playing a crucial role in ensuring its credibility.
Key points
- Nkole urges Kalu to quit Abia North Senate race and seek presidency.
- Nkole emphasizes the importance of legislative experience for voters.
- Nkole expresses confidence in NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi's prospects.
