Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Abia State Governor and current Abia North representative, has challenged Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, to a public debate while asserting himself as the most influential politician in Southeast Nigeria. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Kalu dismissed suggestions that Obi is the region’s political leader, emphasizing his own achievements.
“I’m a member of the APC, and I don’t want to discuss Peter Obi,” Kalu said, insisting on a face-to-face debate. “Any day you want to discuss Peter Obi with me, give us two hours, put him there, and put me here. Then we’ll sort it out.” He highlighted his past successes, including winning two states under the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) and securing 4.9 million votes in the 2007 presidential election, along with appointments under President Yar’Adua.
Kalu rejected claims of Obi’s regional dominance, stating, “He’s not my leader; I am the most important politician from that zone.” He challenged Obi to a debate in the studio to settle the matter. On future ambitions, Kalu, citing former U.S. President Donald Trump, said age would not stop him from running for president if he remains healthy, emphasizing competency over age. “It’s about what is in my brain and what I can deliver,” he added.
