2027: 'Opposition is in disarray, Tinubu has no serious rival – Orji Kalu

Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Kalu, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu will win the 2027 presidential election, claiming that opposition parties are too divided to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Kalu said the APC had a strong political structure and broad support across the country, adding that party members and lawmakers were already working to secure Tinubu’s re-election in their respective constituencies.

The senator made the remarks during an interview on Arise Prime Time, where he also spoke about the Federal Government’s economic reforms, his political ambition, his relationship with former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his involvement in the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

“President Tinubu will win. President Tinubu has no competition. I’m telling you because the opposition is in disarray. What we are seeing is social media. We are not seeing something on ground,” he said.

He argued that the APC’s strength came from its large support base and not solely from Tinubu’s popularity.

Kalu also called for continuity in the country's leadership, saying Tinubu should be allowed to serve two terms, as his predecessor, the late President Muhammadu Buhari, did.

“We allowed President Buhari to do his eight years and go. And we must allow Tinubu to do his eight years and go,” he said.

On the economy, the senator admitted that Nigerians were facing hardship but maintained that the government's reforms were necessary to put the country on a stable economic path.

He said the administration had made progress in stabilising the economy, particularly the foreign exchange market and fuel prices. However, he urged the government to give more attention to manufacturing, insecurity and creating conditions that would allow farmers to return to their farms.

Despite defending the reforms, Kalu acknowledged that the economic challenges were affecting businesses. He disclosed that some factories were struggling to generate enough income to pay workers.

“I’m not enjoying it because factories are not producing enough money to pay salaries,” he said.

He said a stable economy would help manufacturers plan their operations better, especially regarding foreign exchange costs, production and investment.

Speaking about reports that he was interested in becoming Senate President, Kalu said he would accept the position if it was offered to him but would not lobby Tinubu or anyone else for the role.

“If I’m given, I will take. Because these are God’s gifts,” he said.

He added that his immediate priority was to retain his Senate seat, contribute to lawmaking and prepare younger politicians to take up leadership positions.

2027: 'Opposition is in disarray, Tinubu has no serious rival – Orji Kalu