Sen Orji Uzor Kalu: Father of Modern Abia State and Godfather of Abia Political Class
Ik Ogbonna.
In the annals of Abia State’s history since its creation in 1991, no single figure looms larger than Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. As the first democratically elected governor of the state from 1999 to 2007, Kalu did not merely administer Abia — he fundamentally reshaped it, laying the foundational infrastructure, institutions, and political structures that define “God’s Own State” today. He is rightfully hailed as the father of modern Abia for transforming a nascent state into a vibrant entity with roads, industries, educational facilities, and a robust political ecosystem. More than that, Kalu stands as the undisputed godfather of Abia’s political class, having mentored, appointed, and propelled countless leaders who dominate the state’s landscape even in 2025.
When Orji Uzor Kalu assumed office in 1999 at the dawn of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, Abia was a state in infancy, grappling with basic developmental challenges. Kalu’s administration changed that trajectory dramatically. He spearheaded massive infrastructure projects: constructing thousands of kilometers of roads (many still in use today), establishing industries like the Aba textile and garment clusters, building the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, and initiating power and water schemes that powered economic growth.
Even current Governor Alex Otti has publicly acknowledged using Kalu’s infrastructure template in Aba as a blueprint for development. Kalu’s era saw the dedication of key landmarks, the empowerment of youth through skills acquisition programs, and the attraction of investments that positioned Abia as an economic hub in the South-East. Political stakeholders from Arochukwu to Ukwa-Ngwa openly declare that “every politician in Abia State today started under him directly or indirectly.” His achievements earned him accolades, including being dubbed the “Action Governor” by President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The Godfather: Nurturing Abia’s Political Giants
Kalu’s influence extends far beyond bricks and mortar — it is etched in the careers of Abia’s most prominent leaders. He handpicked and elevated loyal aides into positions of power, creating a political dynasty that has shaped governance for over two decades.
Here are some notable examples:
Senator Theodore Ahamefule Orji (T.A. Orji): Served as Kalu’s Principal Secretary and Chief of Staff before being handpicked as successor in 2007 on the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) platform, which Kalu founded. T.A. Orji went on to serve two terms as governor (2007–2015) and later as Senator for Abia Central.
Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu: Began his political journey under Kalu’s administration, rising through environmental roles before becoming Deputy General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA). He later served as Governor from 2015 to 2023.
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu: Current Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Started as a very young appointee in Kalu’s government. Kalu provided the platform that launched his meteoric rise in national politics. Specifically, in 2002 at the age of 31, Hon. Benjamin Kalu was appointed as a Transition Chairman of Bende LGA during the second term of Sen. Kalu.
Other notable figures whose political foundations trace back to Kalu’s era include:
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha: Minister of State for Labour and Employment, a long-time ally empowered during Kalu’s tenure. In 2002, she was appointed as Transition Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area. Between July 2002 – 29 May 2007 she served as Commissioner for Resource Management and Manpower Development in the Abia State Executive Council.
Ude Oko Chukwu: Former Deputy Governor under Ikpeazu represented Ohafia North LGA from 2003 to 2007 during the first term of OUK and benefitted from his political mentorship.
Chief Emeka Wogu was Special Adviser on Political Affairs to OUK before his further rise in national politics.
Also, Ex Speaker Hon. Chinedum Orji was his Personal Assistant.
Chief Eric Acho Nwakanma was Commissioner throughout the tenure of OUK from Information; later Agriculture to Works and later rose to Deputy Governor (May–Nov 2007) under T.A. Orji.
Numerous House of Assembly members, commissioners, and local government chairmen who cut their teeth in Kalu’s administration, including figures in the current APC and PDP structures.
From Abia North to Abia South and Central, Kalu’s fingerprints are on nearly every major political career. As leaders in Arochukwu have affirmed, “Orji Kalu taught us the business of politics and remains the father of Abia Politics.”
An Enduring Influence in 2025 and Beyond
Today, as Senator representing Abia North and Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu continues to attract projects to his zone — roads, schools, and empowerment programs — while reconciling old allies across party lines. His recent hosting of former appointees from multiple administrations underscores his role as a unifying elder statesman.
In Nigerian politics, where godfatherism is often controversial, Kalu’s version has been transformative: building a state from scratch and birthing a generation of leaders.
Abia State owes its modern identity and political vibrancy to one man: Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. He is not just a former governor — he is the architect of contemporary Abia and the godfather who continues to shape its destiny. As the state marches toward greater heights, Kalu’s legacy remains the solid foundation upon which all progress stands.
Ik Ogbonna is a Journalist/PR Practitioner.
ikogbonna@gmail.com. +2348037203559