• Expresses readiness to visit Ankara

By Aidoghie Paulinus

Former governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu has appealed to the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoan, to release 50 Nigerian students detained in the country.
Kalu, who wrote on behalf of Uzor Kalu Foundation, expressed readiness to travel to Ankara, the Turkish capital city, to personally receive the students on behalf of the foundation.
He recalled the age-long and excellent ties between Turkey and Nigeria and urged Erdoan, whom he said democratically raised the Turkish nation from zero level to a height never attained prior to his ascendancy, to unconditionally release the 50 students.
The students were detained in connection with the July 15-16 failed coup in Turkey.
The letter, made available to Daily Sun, in Abuja, by foundation reads: “I have been privileged, like you, to be in the reins of governance of Abia State of Nigeria as its Executive Governor for eight years (1999-2007).
“Let me thank you for the landmark achievements you have made in the lives of the people of Turkey.
“From nowhere, you have democratically raised the Turkish nation from zero level to a height never attained prior to your ascendancy as president. What more can I say?
“You are, indeed, a leader whose leadership qualities and sterling credentials endear to many.”
“Not alien to issues such as the current situation of our detained 50 students in Turkey, I am sending you this heartfelt letter, to appeal to your paternal love and the long-existing ties between Turkey and Nigeria, for the unconditional release of our 50 students.
“They are in Turkey primarily to seek knowledge in your institutions of higher learning.
“On behalf of our foundation, I have received various Nigerians from Europe, the Americas and other countries in similar situations in the past.
“This, no doubt, would add to our work.
“We are ready to do everything within our power, to receive these students and return them to their respective schools, except those found culpable.
“I am, by this letter, also informing you of my readiness to, personally, put myself forward before you in Ankara, to receive the students.”
Kalu assured Erdogan of the assurances of the foundation and the good people of Nigeria.