Abia State 2027 governorship hopeful and notable figure within the All Progressives Congress APC, Mascot Uzor-Kalu, has reaffirmed that his decision to seek public office is inspired by a deep sense of responsibility to serve and uplift the people of the state.
In an interview with National Sunrise, Uzor Kalu stated that leadership must transcend political ambition and be guided by compassion, transparency, and tangible results. He noted that the worsening socio economic conditions faced by ordinary citizens across communities strengthened his resolve to offer purposeful leadership driven by empathy and action.
He observed that repeated unmet promises and ineffective governance have weakened public trust in leadership, stressing that Abians deserve leaders who understand their daily realities and are prepared to respond decisively to their needs.
“My decision to step forward is purely about service,” he said. “Leadership should translate into solutions. When you see traders struggling to survive, youths without opportunities, civil servants under pressure, and rural communities neglected, conscience demands action. True leadership must be sincere, visionary, and people oriented.”
Drawing from his experience in the private sector, Uzor Kalu explained that his background has instilled in him a culture of discipline, efficiency, and accountability, values he believes are essential for effective governance. He lamented that the absence of these principles in public administration has often resulted in waste and poor utilisation of resources.
“In business, performance is not optional, it is compulsory,” he stated. “Results define credibility. Government should operate with the same mindset, where public funds are converted into infrastructure, functional institutions, and opportunities that improve lives.”
He also stressed the importance of inclusive governance, insisting that women and young people must be actively involved in decision making. According to him, the youth population represents the engine of economic growth, and ignoring their potential could deepen unemployment, insecurity, and social unrest.
“Our youths are creative and driven,” he said. “What they need is support through skills development, entrepreneurship, and technology. When youths are empowered, they become builders of stability and prosperity, not spectators.”
On political engagement, Uzor Kalu maintained that opposition should be viewed as a healthy component of democracy rather than hostility. He argued that constructive criticism and alternative viewpoints help strengthen governance and keep leaders accountable.
“Democracy thrives on dialogue and scrutiny,” he noted. “Opposition is not an enemy. It is a necessary force that ensures policies are people focused and leaders remain responsible.”
He concluded by assuring Abians that his aspiration is founded on sincerity, careful planning, and a long term vision for development. He called on citizens to stay engaged in the political process, stressing that sustainable progress can only be achieved through active collaboration between leaders and the people.
