Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, has received former Governor of the state, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, with a promise to work with every Abian irrespective of one’s political affiliation.
The Labour Party Governor who received, Kalu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, said that what mattered was the progress of Abia State, and not party loyalty.
Gov. Otti reaffirmed his philosophy that once elections and litigations are over, partisan politics takes a back seat while governance takes front stage.
According to him, he is the Governor of Abia State and not the Governor of any political party.
“Like I have always maintained, once after elections and probably litigations are over, political platforms take the back seat and Governance takes the front seat.
“So, it is in that spirit that I welcome you, not as a member of a different political party but as the servant of the people of Abia State of which you are one of them.
“A political party that anybody belongs to is my choice. Once you are from Abia or you live in Abia, you are part and parcel of this Government.”
Otti further said: “Political parties are not instruments of war but a mere platform and every Abia person wants good governance which he is working with his team to give to Abia people.”
He also appreciated Senator Orji Kalu for periodically offering valuable advice to him and thanked him for coming in fulfilment of his promise after not being able to attend his first anniversary dinner.
Speaking earlier, Senator Kalu said he came to discuss issues of national and state importance that would help move Abia forward, arguing that political party is inconsequential to the good of Abia.
Senator Orji said it was time for all Abians to jettison party politics and unite for the advancement of Abia.
He said: “As a former Governor, it was important that consultation continues and I came to discuss some issues pertaining to the State and to Nigeria as a Country and give you progress report of what is happening in the National Assembly.
“Let us not look at what party we belong to, let us look at what we can do for Abia. Let’s keep our political flags and our political parties in our rooms, let’s develop our State.”
Sen. Kalu commended Otti for receiving him and his entourage at very short notice and for giving them quality time despite his busy schedules.
