A stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief John Okiyi-Kalu, popularly known as JOK, has spoken after he successfully scaled screening for the 2027 Abia State governorship election on the platform of the party.
The PDP chieftain said that his major interest in aspiring to lead Abia State is to spread prosperity people can see and feel.
He also said he intends to completely industrialise the state and improve all facets of life in the state through innovation.
Kalu, speaking after having a successful screening by the PDP governorship screening committee, led by former Ahmed Maikarfi, described the screening as smooth and successful, stressing that it is basically what he actually expected from a great party like the PDP.
Answering questions from newsmen after the screening, he said that it will be an honour for him to contest the governorship election on the platform of a party he trusts so much and has been a member of since 1999 without defecting to another party, no matter the trials and temptations.
Responding to more questions about the current administration in Abia State and achievements listed, he urged Nigerians to beware of propaganda.
He said those present in the state already know the reality as opposed to people outside Abia State and in the diaspora who believe the propaganda hook, line, and sinker.
Kalu said: “What we have now is a government of 90 percent propaganda and 10 percent substance.
“He tells you that he had done 51 smart schools.
“Of course, you can verify from the state account that N54 billion was taken away for 51 smart schools, and they do not exist anywhere in Abia State, but you believe him.
“He tells you that he has a rail station, but there is none.
“He tells people that he built a flyover, but he built none.
“Just like you believe that Dr. Alex Otti did Ariaria International Market remodelling, which I obviously did from scratch to finish as a Commissioner for Trade and Investment.
“So, you’re free to believe whatever you wish because you’re not from Abia, nor do you work there.
“Those from Abia know Abia well.
“And once I move, they’ll all stand behind me.”
Answering more questions, Kalu said he wants to change the narrative of governance in Abia State, stressing that he is not a man known for interest in unnecessary wealth accumulation, which he described as the major bane of leadership in the country.
He said: “Ask my people; you served in government for eight years and came out poorer.
“Probed repeatedly by all kinds of agencies in Nigeria without fault, it means you’re not a man who’s interested in stealing.
“I think it is a capital sin to steal from the people in order to become wealthy.
