Orji Uzor Kalu, Senate Chief Whip, has revealed that he is in advanced discussions with former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari regarding their joint bid for the 10th Senate Presidency.
In an interview at the National Assembly, Kalu expressed confidence in their ambition, stating that they enjoy support from colleagues and sponsors within and outside the Senate Chamber.
Addressing the issue, Kalu asserted, “I cannot step down for anybody. I’m contesting the Senate Presidency, but we are discussing the possibility of a joint ticket with Senator-elect Abdulaziz Yari, and talks have progressed significantly.”
Kalu’s stand is contrary to president Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice of Senator Godswill Akpabio for the 10th Senate Presidency.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration among different regions, stating, “No zone can unilaterally produce a Senate President, just as no single zone can solely produce the President of Nigeria. We have a united partnership with Senator-elect Yari that will work for Nigeria. In the coming days and weeks, these partnerships will be unveiled. We have not yet decided who will assume the role of Senate President and who will be the deputy.”
Kalu also expressed his view on the Niger Delta Ministry, urging President Bola Tinubu to abolish it due to its perceived lack of relevance. He suggested that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the North East Development Commission report directly to the Presidency.
Kalu proposed the repositioning of the NDDC and the complete elimination of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
