Abia State |January 7, 2026 —
Chief Mascort Uzo-Kalu has called for stronger grassroots-focused governance as he faced an interview on Don FM Radio in Umuahia, where he spoke extensively on local government funding, economic inclusion, party unity, and his political aspirations within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the programme, Uzo-Kalu expressed concern over what he described as the persistent denial of financial autonomy to local governments. He stressed that local governments are constitutionally recognised as the third tier of government and should therefore receive their statutory allocations directly. According to him, the inability of councils to access their funds has weakened service delivery and distanced governance from the people at the grassroots.
Commenting on ongoing road construction projects across Abia State, which have attracted public applause, Uzo-Kalu questioned the level of participation of indigenous contractors. He argued that development should not be limited to visible infrastructure alone but should also translate into economic opportunities for local business owners, contractors, and suppliers. He maintained that excluding local participants from such projects contributes to widespread hardship and rising hunger in the state.
The APC chieftain emphasized that government remains the biggest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product and therefore has a responsibility to stimulate the local economy through inclusive procurement practices. He noted that when local contractors are engaged, wealth circulates within communities, jobs are created, and the impact of governance becomes more tangible to ordinary citizens.
Drawing from his experience in public service, Uzo-Kalu recalled that during his time in government, a local government law was enacted which established joint accounts between the state and local governments. He explained that the arrangement was designed to enable both tiers to execute joint projects for the benefit of the people, while still recognising the importance of collaboration and accountability.
When asked about the perceived existence of different camps within the APC in Abia State, Uzo-Kalu dismissed factional labels, stating that he considers himself part of all camps within the party. He called for unity and collective purpose, noting that internal divisions only weaken the party’s capacity to offer credible leadership to the people.
Addressing questions about his stance toward the current administration, Uzo-Kalu clarified that while he disagrees with certain policies of the government, his criticisms are not driven by personal animosity toward the governor. He acknowledged that governance allows room for differing opinions and affirmed that there can only be one governor at a time, whose office deserves respect.
On his gubernatorial ambition, Uzo-Kalu expressed confidence in his qualifications and chances within the APC. He noted that he is currently the only aspirant who has publicly declared interest in the party’s governorship ticket. He cited his experience as a former Chief of Staff to the Abia State Government as part of his preparation for higher responsibility, adding that his decision to step forward is rooted in a desire to offer purposeful leadership and policy-driven governance.
The interview offered listeners insight into Uzo-Kalu’s political philosophy, which centers on economic inclusion, grassroots development, and party unity, as Abia State continues to navigate conversations around governance, development, and leadership ahead of future elections.
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