Tinubu Has Never Begged Anyone To Join APC” – Orji Kalu

Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has dismissed allegations that President Bola Tinubu is pressuring governors and political figures to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Ireporter Online, Kalu made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking with journalists after the resumption of plenary following the Easter break, stressing that political decisions to join the ruling party are voluntary and not influenced by coercion from the President or the APC leadership.

He urged politicians across the country to focus on strengthening democratic institutions and offering credible policy alternatives rather than engaging in what he described as unproductive criticism of the government.

Kalu stated that President Tinubu has never compelled anyone to leave their party or join the APC, adding that any politician who decides to defect does so on personal grounds. He further noted that the party operates on negotiation and mutual agreement, insisting that no one is forced to remain in or leave the APC once discussions are concluded.

The senator also dismissed allegations suggesting that the APC and the Tinubu administration are influencing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such claims as unfounded and harmful to Nigeria’s democratic image. He reaffirmed respect for INEC, praising its leadership and describing the commission as an independent institution led by a respected academic.

Kalu criticized opposition voices, particularly from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), for making what he called frivolous accusations, warning that such narratives could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and damage the country’s democratic progress.

Addressing concerns over alleged marginalisation of the South East under the APC-led government, Kalu argued that successive administrations, including those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Tinubu, have contributed to national development across regions. He maintained that the South East has benefited from federal attention, noting that governance is a continuous process where each leader builds on the efforts of predecessors.