The Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate wept, Orji Uzor Kalu profusely on Saturday as he recalled his ordeal during the final session of the ninth Senate.
Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, explained that he was a successful businessman prior to entering politics. He stated that he financed the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, between 1998 and 1999, and bemoaned the fact that he was labelled a thief by the very government he helped.
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As Kalu struggled to hold back his tears, he lamented the humiliation he endured at the hands of government agents, stating that some elements who cannot explain the source of their wealth are allowed to roam freely, while those who work hard in business are harassed.
He explained that his time in the Senate had provided him with a better understanding of the average citizen, emphasizing that Nigerians are “wonderful people.”
He thanked the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, for visiting him in prison every week while he was incarcerated, as well as those who expressed concern over his incarceration.
He stated, “Before I entered politics, I could buy whatever I desired. I had already established three manufacturing firms in Aba and two in Onitsha.
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“I financed the Peoples Democratic Party between 1997 and 1998, and those who come to my house for transport fares are the ones who call me a thief,” he lamented.
When he was governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu was sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court for N7.65 billion in fraud.
