Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has claimed that the recent surge in killings and kidnappings across Nigeria is politically motivated, alleging that certain politicians are funding the attacks to destabilize President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The former Abia State governor and current Senate Chief Whip made the accusation during an appearance on Channels Television‘s Sunday Politics, saying the pattern of violence suggests it goes beyond ordinary banditry.
Kalu believes the attacks are part of a deliberate strategy to portray the government as ineffective, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of future elections.
While declining to name specific individuals, Kalu drew parallels to tactics allegedly used during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure, noting that insecurity often escalates during election periods as opposition groups seek to weaken those in power.
He suggested that both local and foreign actors are involved in fueling the current instability for political advantage.
“These attacks are not isolated. They are part of a larger pattern tied to upcoming political maneuvers,” Kalu said.
Despite his concerns about the political dimension of the crisis, Kalu praised President Tinubu’s handling of the security situation.
He noted that the President suspended official engagements to focus on addressing the wave of abductions affecting communities and schools across the country.
The senator assured Nigerians that efforts are underway to rescue victims, including schoolgirls taken by armed groups, acknowledging the complexity of the operations while emphasizing that security forces are working intensively.
Kalu also commended military personnel and other security operatives for their dedication, saying they are fully deployed and committed to restoring peace in troubled regions.
