Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has stepped up political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, rallying traders at the Alaba International Market in Lagos to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governorship ambition of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, made the call during an engagement with the leadership of the market, which has a strong presence of Igbo traders and entrepreneurs.
Kalu, a former Abia State governor urged the traders to continue supporting the Tinubu administration, arguing that the economic reforms being implemented by the Federal Government were aimed at laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigerian economy.
While acknowledging the difficulties associated with the ongoing reforms, Kalu appealed to the business community to remain patient and committed to the administration, stressing that the long-term benefits of the policies would outweigh the immediate challenges.
He also called on the traders to support Hamzat in his bid to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing the deputy governor as an experienced administrator with the capacity to sustain the development trajectory of Lagos State.
According to Kalu, the longstanding relationship between the Igbo business community and Lagos State makes political stability and continuity particularly important for traders and entrepreneurs operating in the state.
He maintained that the continuation of policies that promote security, infrastructure, ease of doing business and economic growth would be beneficial to the business community, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on the Lagos economy.
The senator urged the traders to use their influence within their communities to promote peaceful political participation and support candidates capable of protecting their interests and advancing the economic development of the country.
Responding, the leadership of Alaba International Market expressed support for Kalu’s position, pledging their backing for President Tinubu’s second-term ambition as well as Hamzat’s aspiration to become the next governor of Lagos State.
The market leaders also used the occasion to commend Kalu for what they described as his consistent commitment to national unity and the interests of the Igbo business community.
They described the senator as a courageous statesman and bridge-builder who had demonstrated the ability to work across ethnic and political divides.
The traders particularly praised his advocacy for peace, national cohesion and economic development, saying his interventions on issues affecting the Igbo community had strengthened his standing among business owners and stakeholders across the country.
They said Kalu’s engagement with the market leadership reflected the importance of dialogue and consultation in building stronger relationships between political leaders and the business community.
The meeting ended with expressions of solidarity from both sides, as Kalu and the market leaders reiterated their commitment to supporting political leadership and policies they believe would advance economic prosperity, stability, security and inclusive development.
The engagement is expected to further deepen political interaction between Kalu and the Alaba business community as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2
