Senate Chief Whip, Orji Kalu, has revealed that he is in alliance talks with Abdul Aziz Yari, a fellow contender for the Senate presidency race. Despite the All Progressives Congress (APC) nominating Godswill Akpabio for the Senate presidency, Kalu maintained that he would not step down for anyone.
Speaking with journalists, Kalu stressed the need for a united partnership between both men that works for Nigeria, rather than one zone producing the Senate presidency. “Like I used to tell people, no one zone can produce the president of Nigeria. What we are trying to do with Senator Yari is a united partnership that will work for Nigeria. In the coming days or weeks, that partnership will be unveiled, so we are in serious talks,” he said.
Kalu further emphasised that both men are seeking to protect the integrity of the Senate and support the new administration of President Bola Tinubu. While he confirmed that they have been speaking for the past four weeks, Kalu stated that the result of their meetings with sponsors will soon be made public.
This development comes amidst concerns over the increasing number of aspirants for the Senate presidency position and the implications this could have on Nigeria’s political climate. As such, it is imperative for political stakeholders across Nigeria to ensure that the Senate leadership race is conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner, devoid of any form of violence or acrimony.
