Mascot Kalu and the Case for a People-First Leadership in Abia 2027

Abia State is once again at a turning point. As political activities begin to shape the road to 2027, one declaration has stirred renewed optimism across the state — that of Sir Mascot Uzor Kalu, former Chief of Staff to the Abia State Governor, who has officially announced his bid to contest the governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking in Umuahia on October 25, 2025, Kalu pledged to lead a government that works for “all” Abians, especially the underserved at the grassroots level.

His message was one of unity, transparency, and inclusion — values that resonate deeply in a state long burdened by uneven governance and economic stagnation.

“Our journey is not politics as usual. It is a call to restore empathy to leadership and give every Abian a reason to believe again,” said Kalu.

Kalu’s message carries weight not only because of his experience in government but also because of his restraint and maturity following the 2023 election.

Though he was a leading contender and raised concerns about irregularities, Kalu chose not to challenge the results in court, opting instead to allow the administration space to govern.

In a political climate often marred by endless litigation, this act of statesmanship demonstrated a rare commitment to peace and stability.

In his declaration, Kalu outlined a comprehensive plan for transforming Abia’s governance structure. His proposed agenda focuses on equity, economic development, and transparency — with a clear emphasis on local empowerment. Among his key promises:

Transparency and Accountability: Opening the state’s financial systems to public scrutiny. Workers’ Welfare: Ensuring prompt payment of salaries and pensions to restore dignity to public service. Youth Employment: Creating job-driven economic programs to tackle Abia’s unemployment rate, which currently stands at over 62%, nearly double the national average.

Others are Local Government Autonomy: Releasing and publishing LG allocations in full to strengthen grassroots governance. Sustainable Development: Continuing viable capital projects while prioritizing human capacity development.

Kalu also pledged to implement President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” at the grassroots level, ensuring that federal initiatives translate into real benefits for the people of Abia.

More than a campaign, Kalu’s declaration feels like a moral movement. Inviting Abians from across political and social divides to join hands in rebuilding the state, he anchored his message in faith and resilience, quoting Saint Teresa of Avila:

“Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you. God never changes. Whoever has God lacks nothing.”

His campaign slogan — “Onye rụọ, orie! Arutu uzu, arutu afọ!” (He who works, eats! When the barn is full, so is the stomach!) — encapsulates his belief that prosperity must be earned collectively and shared equitably.

Kalu’s entrance into the 2027 race has already begun to reshape political discussions in Abia. His focus on grassroots empowerment, financial transparency, and inclusive governance stands out in a state where citizens are demanding more accountability and opportunity.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, Abians will have to decide what kind of leadership they want — one that maintains the status quo or one that drives real change from the bottom up. For many, Mascot Uzor Kalu’s message offers a refreshing alternative: a call to rebuild Abia into a state that truly works for “all”.

Because as Kalu reminded the crowd in Umuahia: “Let us build an Abia that works for all of us, not just some of us.”

Rubby Obinna
October 25, 2025.