Former Abia State governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has said state governors, not President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, bear the primary responsibility for tackling insecurity across the country.

Kalu spoke on Thursday during a New Year visit to the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State, Stanley Emegha, at Ekoli Edda in Edda Local Government Area.

According to the former governor, insecurity can only be effectively addressed when governors take full ownership of security within their respective states.

He singled out Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for commendation, noting that the governor has demonstrated strong commitment to the protection of lives and property in the state.

Kalu also recalled that Abia State was one of the safest states in the country during his tenure as governor.

“Abia was the most secure state in Nigeria when I was governor. While other states, including Warri and Port Harcourt, were experiencing serious security challenges, Aba remained safe. There was no kidnapping in Abia State at that time,” he said.

He dismissed growing calls blaming President Tinubu for the nation’s security challenges, insisting that governors must be held accountable.

“People are saying President Tinubu should do this and that to end insecurity. No. When I was governor, I took full responsibility for Abia State. Nobody could move around without the assurance of safety,” Kalu said.

The senator urged governors to emulate the security model adopted in Ebonyi State, stressing that Nigeria would be safer if each governor secured his domain.

“Every governor must return to the basics and secure his state. If that is done across the country, Nigeria will be safe,” he added.

Kalu also vowed to work for the victory of the APC in Abia State in the 2027 general election.

He said he would support President Tinubu’s re-election bid and ensure the emergence of an APC governor in Abia.

“Alex Otti is my friend, but politics is about party loyalty. I will vote for the APC and work tirelessly for its victory. Abia will be APC in 2027,” Kalu declared.