Abia: No Basis For Comparison Between Senator Orji Kalu And Otti For Now – Nshirim
A businessman and community leader, Chief Obinna Nshirim, has reacted to recent political discussions involving Abia State Governor Alex Otti, saying there is currently no basis for comparison between him and Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
Nshirim said Senator Kalu’s political journey clearly sets him apart, noting that his record reflects courage, resilience and tested leadership.
According to him, Kalu’s experience in national politics was shaped by difficult moments that strengthened his political standing.
He recalled that Kalu once fell out with the Federal Government during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Nshirim said instead of backing down, Kalu chose to confront the situation directly, describing it as “facing the monster eyeball to eyeball.”
According to Nshirim, one of Kalu’s most daring decisions at the time was the formation of a new political party, the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), which he said was built from scratch through personal effort and determination.
He noted that the strength of the PPA was later proven when the party produced two governors, Ikedi Ohakim in Imo State and Theodore Orji in Abia State as well as a four federal lawmakers, a development he described as remarkable for a young political party.
Nshirim stressed that these achievements showed Kalu’s ability to build political structures, mobilise support and remain relevant even outside the ruling political establishment.
“There is honestly no basis for comparison between Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and His Excellency, Dr Alex Otti, for now,” Nshirim said, adding that political experience is built over time and through proven leadership.
He urged political commentators and the public to be guided by facts and history, noting that Senator Kalu’s long years of political struggle and success place him in a distinct class in Nigeria’s politics.
