The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), the apex sociopolitical youth group in the region, has formally declared Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as the most respected political leader in the South East, crediting him with significant political realignments in the zone.
In a press statement released on Thursday, the coalition lauded the Senator representing Abia North for his “unwavering commitment” to advancing democracy and uplifting the lives of his people.
The group highlighted Senator Kalu’s historical sacrifices, citing the revocation of his business licenses, including an airline license, by the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a testament to his “principled stance” and fight for the Igbo people.
“The sacrifices made by Senator Kalu for the sake of democracy cannot be overstated,” the statement read. “His unwavering stance, even in the face of adversity, is a reflection of a true leader who prioritizes the welfare of the people over personal gain.”
COSEYL specifically pointed to the Senator’s influential role in the recent wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South East. The coalition stated that his “political acumen and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in encouraging defections from opposition lawmakers, governors, and other prominent political figures.”
This influence, the youth leaders argued, has “paved the way for enhanced unity and representation of the South East in the national political arena.”
The statement, signed by the President General of COSEYL, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, concluded by reaffirming the group’s belief that Senator Kalu’s “contributions, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication to our cause resonate deeply with the people,” solidifying his position as the region’s preeminent political figure.
The declaration from the prominent youth coalition is seen as a significant endorsement for Senator Kalu, potentially bolstering his influence within the APC and the South East political landscape ahead of future elections.
The press statement is reproduced in full below
COALITION OF SOUTH EAST YOUTH LEADERS (COSEYL).
PRESS RELEASE
COSEYL Lauds Senator Orji Kalu as the Most Respected Political Leader in the South East.
… His political influence instrumental for defections of opposition Govs, lawmakers and prominent political figures to the APC in S’East.
In light of the recent developments in the political landscape of the South East, the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) the apex sociopolitical youth group in the South East geopolitical zone wishes to formally recognize and express our profound admiration for Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the Distinguished Senator representing the good people of Abia North Senatorial Zone. We commend his unwavering commitment which he has demonstrated in advancing democracy and uplifting the lives of his people.
Senator Kalu has consistently proven himself to be a relentless advocate for the Ndigbo and democracy at large. His dedication has not gone unnoticed, particularly in light of the unprecedented investments he has made using his personal resources to secure political emancipation for our people. Despite facing severe repercussions, including the loss of multiple business licenses—most notably, the revocation of his airline license by former President Olusegun Obasanjo due to his principled stance—Senator Kalu has remained resolute in his fight for justice, equity, and the betterment of Nigeria.
The sacrifices made by Senator Kalu for the sake of democracy cannot be overstated. His unwavering stance, even in the face of adversity, is a reflection of a true leader who prioritizes the welfare of the people over personal gain. Emblematic of this is the saying: “He who does not know where a corpse is buried will try to exhume it from the leg side.” Senator Kalu knows the challenges faced by our people, and he has taken significant steps to address them, solidifying his legacy as a hero among the Ndigbo and across Nigeria.
Furthermore, we recognize Senator Kalu’s influential role in the recent political realignments within the South East. His political acumen and unwavering dedication have been fundamental in encouraging defections from opposition lawmakers, governors, and other prominent political figures to the All Progressive Congress (APC). This remarkable influence has paved the way for enhanced unity and representation of the South East in the national political arena.
The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) stands firm in our belief that Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is the most respected political leader in the South East. His contributions, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication to our cause resonate deeply with the people. We extend our gratitude to him for his remarkable leadership and tireless efforts in advocating for the Ndigbo and Nigerian democracy.
Signed:
Comrade Goodluck Ibem
President General,
(COSEYL).
