Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has said his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is tied to President Bola Tinubu’s respect for democratic institutions and the Catholic Church.
The former Abia State governor stated that he would leave the ruling party if the President ever treated either unfairly.
The senator made the remarks while commenting on the recent debate involving the Presidency and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). The controversy followed President Tinubu’s engagement with Catholic bishops and the public reactions that came afterward.
“Any day President Tinubu disrespects the opposition or the Catholic Church, I will resign from the APC.”
Kalu, however, insisted that he does not believe the President has shown any disrespect to the bishops. He argued that comments made by government officials should not automatically be taken as President Tinubu’s personal views, noting that the President has maintained cordial relations with the Catholic community.
He also defended the role of the Catholic Church in national affairs, saying religious leaders have every right to speak on issues affecting the country. According to him, such interventions should be seen as contributions to national development rather than political attacks.
“The Catholic bishops were right. They are the conscience of this country.”
The lawmaker further called for greater respect for opposing political views, stressing that democracy flourishes when criticism is tolerated. He said governments should engage dissenting voices constructively instead of treating them as enemies.
Kalu’s position has added a fresh dimension to the ongoing public conversation over the relationship between the Presidency, opposition figures and religious organisations ahead of the 2027 general election. Political observers say the comments reinforce calls for more inclusive political dialogue.
While reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, Kalu said his support remains rooted in democratic principles rather than blind partisanship. He expressed confidence that President Tinubu would continue to uphold respect for both political opponents and faith-based institutions.
