* Seeks presidential ticket for South East
Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC) to take a decision on its zoning formula of the party ahead of the 2023 primary elections.
He also restated that he would only run for the office of president if the party zones the position to the South East.
Kalu said making public APC’s zoning formula has become necessary, as it will guide aspirants on the right path to follow, and in accordance with demands of the party.
The former governor of Abia State noted that the pattern used in conducting the last APC convention was commendable, and should be emulated in future contests in the party.
Kalu noted through a statement in Abuja: “As the presidential primary election approaches, the issue of zoning is once again central and, as usual, contentious. The party is gearing towards making forms available for different elective positions and it is important that the party, as a matter of urgency, reveals its zoning plans for intending aspirants.
“The zoning of offices is very important as it will not only shed light on the path of contenders, but also save the party from unnecessary disagreements and litigations after primaries.
“My earlier calls, and that of other political leaders, stakeholders, opinion moulders, among others, for the need to be sensitive to the South East region, which has been excluded from the presidency, should be of concern to all well meaning Nigerians.”
Kalu said further: “The year 2023 is really a good time to tweak our democratic experiment and create everlasting history in such a way that shows sensitivity to the country’s cultural uniqueness and make all regions feel a sense of belonging. It is time to strengthen the unity of the country by making a Southeasterner president of Nigeria. There is absolutely no better time for it but now.
“In our country, today, having built a formidable spread across regions, I consider myself the most detribalised Nigerian with rich experience in economy, business, politics, security and sports to lead the people and manage the economy. I shall be running for the office of president if the party zones it to the South East.
“However, in the absence of the zoning to the South East, I understand the supremacy of the party and shall abide by the decision of the party.”
On the unity of the country, Kalu encouraged Nigerians to eschew tribalism and all factors that hinder national cohesion.
