Former Abia State governor and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Orji Kalu, has called on the party’s national leadership to constitute a special committee, which would reconcile aggrieved members, ahead of the 2019 general elections.
Kalu noted that grievances are best resolved through internal reconciliation mechanism, which is devoid of sentiments.
The APC chieftain urged president Buhari to participate fully in the affairs of the APC, in order to understand the concerns of party faithful and other stakeholders. The former governor noted that the president has the capacity to douse the tension in the party.
In his remarks he hosted executives of “OUK Fans Club UK,” at his London residence, yesterday, Kalu urged Nigerians in the Diaspora to take active part in politics by contributing to national discourse through position papers, articles and opinions, and stressed that Nigerians are known for their intellectual capacity.
Speaking against the backdrop of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and Minister of Women Affairs, Senator Aisha Al-Hassan’s comments, Kalu called for truce in the interest of Nigeria’s growing democracy, and added that the APC is poised to take the country to enviable heights while providing succor for the masses.
“Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is a household name in national politics and, as such, his grievances should be deeply looked into by the party, for the sake of building a more inclusive and integrated party.
“In a democratic set-up, people should be allowed to say their minds without fear and Mr. President has sustained this gesture since he assumed office, which is obvious with the level of maturity and patriotism displayed by him despite the comments of the former vice president, Al-Hassan and others.
“The president deserves commendation for upholding the tenets of democracy.
“The media, of which I am a part, should not overheat the polity with stories that will polarise the APC-led government.
“The federal government remains committed and focused in its resolve to make live meaningful for the people.”
Kalu reiterated that the Buhari-led federal government should be applauded for restoring Nigeria’s lost glory in all facets of life.
“Government has continually rolled out social investments through its N-Power initiative, in a bid to scale down development to the grassroots.
“Also, worthy of commendation is the ability of the president to curb insurgency and restore peace in the North East.
“The fight against corruption, restoration of discipline in civil and public service and redemption of Nigeria’s image in the international community are verifiable achievements of Mr. President.
“To be fair, the APC government has done well but, Nigerians are yearning for more.’’
Kalu who cautioned politicians against making inflammatory statements, promised to reach out to the APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, for the sake of unity in the party.