By Obinna Uballa
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has dismissed reports claiming President Bola Tinubu is hospitalised in the United Kingdom, insisting the President is healthy but only needs rest.
Kalu, who represents Abia North in the Senate, said he spoke with Tinubu within the last 12 hours and confirmed he was in good shape. The former Abia State governor made this clarification in a video posted on social media from his residence in Maryland, United States.
“Anybody can be sick, anybody can feel not going out. I think the President felt he didn’t want to go out. I want politicians to stop carrying these rumours,” Kalu said.
He added that Tinubu has been in touch with international partners and was preparing for official engagements. “The President has made some contacts with the international community and did Nigerian businesses…,” Kalu stated.
Kalu urged Nigerians to refrain from spreading misinformation about the President’s health, noting that fatigue is normal. “Anybody can be tired. Like three days ago, I went upstairs for two days without going downstairs. Anybody can feel not going out,” he said.
On the economy, Kalu admitted that Tinubu’s reforms were tough but necessary. “Honestly, President Tinubu and his economic policies are very harsh to Nigerians. The President knows that people are suffering and he sympathises with them. But it’s a necessary pill we must swallow,” he said.
The Senate Committee Chairman on South East Development Commission noted that Tinubu is determined to transform Nigeria from a consumption economy to a productive one, citing Brazil as an example of a country that overcame similar challenges.
“I believe the economic policies of President Tinubu might be harsh today, but they will be better tomorrow. We need to produce and convert our agricultural products to goods,” Kalu said.
He called on Nigerians to support the President, stressing that the ongoing reforms will place the economy on a stronger footing.
