From Kenneth Udeh
A prominent Abia State clergyman, Rev. John Ndukwe of the Assemblies of God Church, has called on former Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, to put an end to what he described as “bitter and destructive politics” targeted at the Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
Speaking to journalists in his hometown, Nkporo, Rev. Ndukwe accused Ude Oko Chukwu of allegedly orchestrating smear campaigns against Senator Kalu through known political associates like Chidiebere Uwagwu and Chima Agbaeze.
“Ude Oko Chukwu should remember that Orji Uzor Kalu is the reason he rose politically,” Rev. Ndukwe said pointedly. “It was Senator Kalu who gave him the party ticket that brought him to power and that only happened after a Catholic bishop personally intervened on his behalf. Sadly, he is now repaying good with evil.”
The cleric went on to commend Senator Kalu for the developmental projects he has delivered to Nkporo and its surrounding communities.
“He gave us tarred roads, electrification, and appointments for our sons in top positions,” he noted. “Ude Oko Chukwu has done nothing close to that, apart from stoking division and confusion.”
Expressing disappointment, Rev. Ndukwe added, “As a son of Nkporo, it pains me deeply. He worked against Senator Kalu in the last election and is still bankrolling attacks. It’s unfair. He should leave Orji Uzor Kalu alone.”
The pastor urged politicians in the area to embrace maturity, gratitude, and peace, warning that bitterness only sows seeds of disunity.
“Politics should never blind us to the truth and to gratitude,” he concluded.