BREAKING: Uzor Kalu Vows To Be First Igbo President Before Peter Obi
A former governor of Abia State and serving senator, has declared that he will become Nigeria’s first Igbo president in 2039, urging former Labour Party presidential candidate to “stop disturbing himself” with future presidential contests.
Kalu made the remarks while speaking to journalists, expressing confidence in what he described as a divine prophecy concerning his political future. According to him, the presidency will follow a rotational pattern that would ultimately pave the way for his emergence as Nigeria’s leader in 2039.
“I am a man that believes in principle,” Kalu said. “My elder brother Tinubu is the president now. After his eight years, which will end in 2031, the North will go on to take the slot for eight years. After then, in 2039, I will be the president of Nigeria. This is a prophecy and it must come to pass.”
Kalu’s comments have since sparked debate within political circles, particularly among members of the South-East region, where agitation for the presidency has intensified in recent years.
Zoning and Power Rotation Debate
The senator’s statement is rooted in Nigeria’s long-standing but unofficial zoning arrangement, under which political power rotates between the North and the South to maintain balance in the country’s diverse political landscape. Although not enshrined in the constitution, the principle has shaped party strategies and electoral calculations for decades.
Currently, occupies the presidency following the 2023 general elections. Tinubu, from the South-West, is expected—if he serves two terms—to complete his tenure in 2031. Kalu argues that, based on the zoning tradition, power would then shift back to the North for another eight years before returning to the South, potentially creating an opportunity for an Igbo candidate in 2039.
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Political analysts, however, note that zoning arrangements are often subject to intense negotiations and shifting alliances, making long-term projections uncertain.
A Direct Message to Peter Obi
Kalu’s remarks appeared to be a direct response to the persistent political relevance of Peter Obi, who emerged as a formidable force during the 2023 elections, galvanizing a large youth-driven support base across the country.
By telling Obi to “stop wasting his time and resources,” Kalu signaled his belief that the former Anambra State governor’s presidential ambition may not align with what he sees as the political timetable for the South-East.
Obi has not publicly responded to Kalu’s statement. However, supporters of the former Labour Party candidate argue that Nigeria’s democracy allows any qualified citizen to contest for office at any time, regardless of zoning expectations or prophecies.
Prophecy and Politics
One of the most striking elements of Kalu’s declaration is his reliance on what he described as a prophecy from a “man of God.” While he did not disclose the identity of the cleric, he expressed unwavering confidence that the prediction would be fulfilled.
Religious influence in Nigerian politics is not new. Politicians across party lines have often cited spiritual endorsements or prophetic declarations to reinforce their ambitions. Kalu’s assertion adds another chapter to that trend, blending faith and political forecasting in a country where religion plays a central role in public life.
Critics, however, caution that prophecies cannot replace the complex political groundwork required to win a presidential election. They argue that building national consensus, strengthening party structures, and gaining cross-regional support are more decisive factors.
Reactions From the South-East
In the South-East, reactions have been mixed. Some political stakeholders welcomed Kalu’s boldness, interpreting it as a demonstration of confidence in Igbo leadership potential. Others viewed the statement as premature and potentially divisive, especially given ongoing efforts to build unity among political actors from the region.
The quest for a president of Igbo extraction has remained a sensitive issue, particularly since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. Advocates argue that equity and fairness demand that the South-East be given a realistic opportunity to produce a president.
However, internal divisions among Igbo political elites have often complicated the region’s bargaining power at the national level. Kalu’s public declaration may further intensify debates about who should spearhead that ambition.
Political Calculations Ahead
Although 2039 remains more than a decade away, Kalu’s comments suggest that some politicians are already thinking far ahead. Nigeria’s political terrain is known for its unpredictability, with alliances shifting rapidly and new contenders emerging unexpectedly.
Observers also note that much could change between now and 2039, including party configurations, demographic trends, and voter priorities. Economic conditions, security challenges, and governance performance are likely to shape the political climate in ways that are difficult to forecast today.
Still, Kalu appears undeterred by such uncertainties. By publicly staking his claim so early, he may be positioning himself as a long-term aspirant while consolidating support within and beyond his constituency.
The Road to 2039
Whether prophecy or political strategy, Kalu’s declaration has undeniably injected fresh energy into conversations about Nigeria’s future leadership. His confidence underscores the enduring ambition among South-East politicians to secure the presidency.
For now, the political spotlight remains on the current administration and the challenges facing the nation. But as history has shown, Nigeria’s political actors rarely wait for tomorrow before preparing for the next contest.
As the debate unfolds, one thing is certain: discussions about zoning, equity, and the possibility of an Igbo presidency will continue to shape the country’s political narrative for years to come.
