Orji Kalu Advocates for Single Six-Year Term for Presidents and Governors

Abia North Senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, has reiterated his support for a single six-year term for presidents and state governors, arguing that such a system would reduce governance costs and promote rapid development. Kalu, the former governor of Abia State, explained that the current structure of two four-year terms is costly and distracts officials from their governance duties.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Kalu highlighted that the focus on re-election often prevents politicians from prioritizing their responsibilities. He noted that during his tenure as governor, he had already advocated for a single six-year term. He recalled that his stance led to disagreements with then-President Obasanjo. According to Kalu, the continuous emphasis on re-election detracts from effective governance, as officials concentrate more on securing another term rather than delivering on their mandates.

He said, “When you become a governor or a president, their eyes are on re-election. They are not even thinking about what people will do or what people will get. Every politician is looking for re-election. So, the only way to solve this problem is by giving no incentive to anybody, doing one term of six years. It will go a long way in boosting performance because most people think they need to make money for re-election.”

Kalu also addressed the emoluments of senators, which he believes are insufficient for their responsibilities. He emphasized that senators are often criticized unfairly for their earnings and allowances. The senator clarified that contrary to allegations, there are no official vehicles provided for senators, only for committees. He added that while some senators received aid to buy vehicles, he did not benefit from this.

Dismissing claims that the Senate under Godswill Akpabio is merely a rubber-stamp for the Executive, Kalu explained that much of the criticism surrounding senators’ remuneration and benefits is unfounded. “I am in the Senate, and a lot of things are said about the Senators. I sit there quietly and watch, and most of these things are not true,” he stated.

Kalu further disclosed that he earns N14 million monthly, which covers all expenses, including his salary, staff salaries, constituency upkeep, and operational costs. He explained that senators are often approached by constituents in need of assistance, such as paying for medical bills or school fees, and their earnings are used to address these needs. “From this money, I have to buy fuel to move to my constituency, I have to maintain my constituency offices, I have to sit in the constituency, etc. It is not enough,” he concluded.

Kalu also suggested that the government cut back on unnecessary expenses, including foreign aid and contributions to regional institutions, to manage the country’s economy better.