By Ik Ogbonna
Gabriel Emperor Ogbonna, the outspoken Aba-based human rights activist, constitutional lawyer, and barrister, has publicly shared his assessment of the performance of Abia State’s three serving senators. In a candid social media post, Ogbonna declared Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (representing Abia North) as the clear standout among them, despite not being flawless.
Ogbonna’s verdict is straightforward and unapologetic: on a scale of 0 to 100, he scores Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (OUK) at 60, while assigning just 4 to “Otuonu” (referring to Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe often critiqued for limited visible impact) and a mere 1 to “the soldier” (apparently refering to a senator with a military background representing Abia Central, possibly Senator Austin Akobundu or another). He emphasizes that this judgment is based purely on observable performance and delivery to constituents across Abia State.
“I know what I am saying,” Ogbonna wrote, noting his unique perspective: hailing from Abia North, residing in Abia South, and practicing law in Abia Central. He describes himself as someone who “speak[s] truth to power without any favorite,” yet on this issue, the facts are undeniable in his view. He acknowledges Kalu is “not a Saint” but insists that when senators from Abia are judged by their tangible contributions, Kalu’s record far surpasses the others.
Ogbonna contrasts Kalu’s visible efforts with the perceived inaction of his colleagues. “At least we all see what Orji Uzor Kalu has been doing,” he states, while questioning the achievements of the others despite long tenures: “That Otuonu man has been in the Senate for donkey years, what has he achieved? Then the soldier in Abia Central, hehehe?”
He further praises Kalu’s loyalty to his party (the All Progressives Congress) and his consistent support for national unity (“one Nigeria”), positioning him as a more effective and committed representative.
This assessment aligns with broader recognitions of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s tenure in the Senate. As the representative of Abia North, Kalu has been repeatedly highlighted for his outstanding legislative and constituency performance. Independent monitoring platforms like OrderPaper.ng have ranked him as the top-performing senator from Abia State, crediting him with sponsoring 25 bills during earlier assemblies—one of the highest among his peers—and maintaining high productivity.
His constituency projects are extensive and visible across Abia North’s local government areas. These include:
– Infrastructure: Rehabilitation and construction of rural roads (e.g., Lokpaukwu–Lokpanta Road in Umunneochi, Ebem Ohafia township roads, Akoli Imenyi Road in Bende, Ndi Okorie–Item–Amankalu interventions, and links in Isuikwuato for farming communities).
– Education: Renovation and equipping of classrooms, distribution of learning materials and furniture, construction of model classroom blocks, and support for rural schools.
– Healthcare: Upgrades to primary health centers (including solar power installations), supply of medical equipment and drugs, and facilitation of outreach programs for indigent residents.
– Empowerment and Others: Youth and women programs, rural electrification, water supply schemes, and direct interventions benefiting communities from highlands to lowlands.
Kalu’s efforts have earned accolades from various quarters, including political scientists, traditional rulers, youth and women leaders, and even awards like multiple recognitions from the Senate Press Corps for exceptional contributions to infrastructure and human empowerment. Supporters describe his footprint as unmatched, with statements noting that “no senator in Nigeria today has an impressive list of developmental projects like OUK.” His legislative role, including chairing the Senate Committee on Privatisation, further underscores his influence on national policy.
While opinions on politicians vary, and critics exist (including debates over past statements or governance styles), Ogbonna’s post reinforces a growing narrative: in Abia State’s senatorial representation, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s proactive approach, project delivery, and legislative output set him apart as the most impactful among the current trio.
As Abia residents and observers continue to evaluate their leaders ahead of future elections, such frank assessments from figures like Gabriel Emperor Ogbonna highlight the demand for visible results and accountability in public office.