Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has attributed Nigeria’s escalating insecurity to what he calls “political sabotage” aimed at weakening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Sunday, the former Abia State governor rejected claims that the President is overwhelmed by the crisis. Instead, he alleged that influential individuals are funding violence to tarnish the administration.

“This insecurity is politically instigated. People are sponsoring attacks because they want Tinubu to fail. They did the same to former President Jonathan. It’s all about 2027,” Kalu said.

He insisted that Tinubu remains fully engaged with the security apparatus, stressing that the President receives intelligence “far beyond what lawmakers see.” He cited Tinubu’s suspension of public engagements on Sunday as proof of his active involvement in security matters.

Kalu expressed optimism that recently abducted schoolchildren would be rescued, assuring that security agencies and service chiefs were “fully on duty” and pursuing the perpetrators.

He criticised state governments for failing to use the powers available to them, arguing that the fight against insecurity cannot rely solely on the Federal Government. Recalling his time as Abia governor, he cited the creation of the Bakassi Vigilante group, which he said helped restore safety in Aba.

Pressed to reveal those he believes are sponsoring the violence, Kalu declined, saying the intelligence community is handling the matter.

On state police, Kalu reminded Nigerians that constitutional amendments require approval from two-thirds of state assemblies. “In the 9th Senate, we tried, but the states did not approve it,” he noted.

Addressing the conviction of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, the senator said while Kanu must answer for incitement that allegedly led to deaths and destruction, resolving the matter ultimately requires political dialogue rather than confrontation. Kalu revealed ongoing discussions with federal authorities aimed at finding a political solution.

He condemned attacks on Justice James Omotosho, insisting that dissatisfied parties should pursue appeals rather than attack judicial officers. “Justice Omotosho is just a messenger of the court,” he said.

Kalu added that the National Assembly is holding continuous consultations on the security situation. “I just left the Senate President’s office. We are working, even on Sundays,” he said.