Cleric Berates Ex-Abia Deputy Gov, Accuses Him Of Sponsoring Attacks Against Senator Kalu

A prominent clergyman from Abia State, Reverend John Ndukwe of the Assemblies of God Church, has lashed out at former Deputy Governor of the state, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, accusing him of engaging in bitter and destructive politics targeted at Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the lawmaker representing Abia North Senatorial District.

Speaking to journalists in Nkporo, his hometown, Rev. Ndukwe alleged that Oko Chukwu is behind a series of coordinated smear campaigns against Senator Kalu, often channelled through known political figures such as Chidiebere Uwagwu and Chima Agbaeze.

“Ude Oko Chukwu should remember that Orji Uzor Kalu made him who he is politically,” the cleric said. “He got the party ticket that elevated him to power because Senator Kalu endorsed him, and that was after a Catholic bishop personally pleaded with Senator Kalu on his behalf. Today, he is repaying that kindness with betrayal.”

The pastor also lauded Senator Kalu for his visible contributions to the development of Nkporo and surrounding communities, citing infrastructure projects and political appointments facilitated by the senator.

“He gave us tarred roads, brought electrification projects, and appointed our sons to key positions. Ude Oko Chukwu, on the other hand, has done nothing of that magnitude—only division and confusion,” Rev. Ndukwe added.

Expressing disappointment over the political rivalry, Rev. Ndukwe accused Oko Chukwu of undermining Senator Kalu during the last senatorial election and continuing to fund hostile narratives against him.

“As a son of Nkporo, I am saddened by these actions. It is unfair and ungrateful. He should leave Orji Uzor Kalu alone.”

The cleric concluded by calling on political leaders in the region to promote unity, gratitude, and peace, warning that prolonged bitterness only fuels division.

“Politics should never blind us to truth and gratitude,” he warned. “We need maturity in leadership, not vendettas.”

The development has sparked fresh debate in political circles across Abia North, as calls for reconciliation between the two prominent Nkporo politicians gain momentum.