Former Governor of Abia State and Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) candidate at the March 5 Abia North Senatorial rerun poll, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has congratulated the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Chief Mao Ohuabunwa, on his victory at the Appeal Court sitting in Owerri.
“I congratulate Ohuabunwa on his pyrrhic victory at the Appeal Court. It was not a personal contest, but one aimed at getting the best candidate to represent our people,” Kalu said at the weekend.
“Ohuabunwa should see his victory as a challenge to give our people quality representation that will impact on their lives. That had been my quest. I am confident Ohuabunwa will live up to the expectation of the electorate that gave him the mandate,” the PPA candidate enjoined Ohuabunwa.
Kalu also expressed his belief in the judiciary and his respect for the judgment issued on this matter. “I cherish the rule of law which informed my unflinching acceptance of the outcome of this senatorial legal battle,” Kalu said.
The PPA candidate had appealed against the judgment of the Abia North Senatorial Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Umuahia, which upheld the election of Mao Ohuabunwa of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to the businessman-cum-politician, politics is not a do-or-die affair. He made these remarks while hosting a cross-section of Abuja-based Abia indigenes, who paid him a solidarity visit in Abuja on Saturday.
He said, “As a law-abiding citizen and a patriotic Nigerian, I will continue to offer my best in serving humanity through various platforms including business, philanthropy and politics.
“Over the years, I have created a niche for myself in the business and political spheres of life and I remain eternally grateful to Abians for giving me the opportunity to empower people, who had benefitted directly and indirectly from my political platform including those that have today turned against me for selfish and wicked reasons.
“I will not lose focus on my passion and commitment to uplifting the people of Abia State and as such, I would continue to serve humanity in all my endeavours. The show of love and support from the nooks and crannies of the 17 local government areas of Abia State during our last campaign and after the controversial election is commendable and I can only express my gratitude by sustaining my relationship with the masses.
“To my supporters, followers, well-wishers, friends and family, I will continue to cherish your advice, support and counsel as you remain my greatest strength.
“I would also like to appeal to the people of Abia North to support Chief Mao Ohuabunwa in his legislative responsibilities”, he declared.
Kalu, while appealing to the political class in Abia State to play the game by the rules, urged them to remember that leadership is about service and not self-aggrandizement, adding that the commonwealth of the people should be used in implementing impactful projects in the state.