…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
The Chief Whip of the Senate and a contender for the Senate Presidency in the 10th National Assembly, Orji Uzor Kalu, revealed his prison ordeal during the valedictory session of the ninth Senate.
Kalu, previously the governor of Abia State, had been prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside Ude Jones Udeogu on charges of money laundering amounting to N7.1 billion.
Nullification of Conviction and Acquittal:
Kalu was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment on December 5, 2019, while Udeogu received a 10-year sentence.
However, the Supreme Court later invalidated their trial and released them.
The apex court ruled that the trial judge, Mohammed Idris, who had been promoted to the court of appeal during the case, should not have presided over the matter while serving as an appeal court judge.
Although the EFCC appealed the acquittal, no new charges have been filed against the former governor.
Kalu’s Assertion of Innocence and Financial Contributions:
During the valedictory session, Orji Uzor Kalu expressed his emotions and denied being a thief as portrayed on social media.
He asserted his ability to afford anything money can buy before entering politics.
Kalu also claimed to have played a significant financial role in the formation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prior to his political career.
Persecution, Survival, and Entry into the Senate:
With tears in his eyes, Kalu recounted the challenges he faced while imprisoned, including the seizure of his businesses and an alleged plot to assassinate him.
Despite these difficulties, he survived and successfully transitioned into a senatorial position.
Kalu expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their unwavering support throughout his four-year tenure.
However, he voiced his discontent with the state of the nation, citing the transformation of people he once helped with transport money into agents and lamenting the perceived unfairness in Nigeria.
Conclusion:
Orji Uzor Kalu’s speech during the valedictory session of the ninth Senate provided a glimpse into his prison experience, personal struggles, and determination to prove his innocence.
His emotional testimony shed light on the impact of his trial on his life and businesses.
Kalu’s presence in the Senate, despite the challenges he faced, serves as a testament to his resilience.
As he bid farewell to his colleagues, he expressed his concerns about the state of the country and called attention to the injustices he believes he has endured.