Abia North Senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, has made startling allegations against Nigeria's wealthy elite, claiming that most billionaires in the country amassed their wealth by looting government coffers and converting the funds to dollars.

The former Abia State governor made these remarks during a conversation with veteran journalist Dele Momodu and Nigerian fashion designer Seyi Vodi, where he positioned himself among the few legitimate wealth creators in the country.

"There are few like me that are not thieves and made legitimate money in this country," Kalu stated. "Almost everybody you see today who are billionaires stole government money."

The senator further claimed that many of today's billionaires were "nowhere in 1997 and 98," suggesting their wealth emerged suspiciously after having access to government positions or connections.

Dollar Dependency and Economic Impact

Kalu linked these alleged corrupt practices to Nigeria's economic challenges, particularly focusing on the dollarization of wealth in the country.

"Let's stop the usage of dollars and let's see how they would survive," he challenged. "They are stealing money and changing to dollars, so how can the economy be well? It's not possible."

The senator threatened to name specific individuals if provoked: "I don't want to get angry, any day I get angry, I will call them out by names."

Claims of Personal Sacrifice

During the same period, Kalu made separate claims on Channels Television's Politics Today program, stating that he never benefited personally from his tenure as Abia State governor.

"Politics has been so dangerous to me because the Federal Government took over my assets," he said, adding that he "spent money on people without benefiting a single thing."

These statements come amid ongoing debates about wealth accumulation among Nigeria's political class and the country's persistent economic challenges, including currency devaluation and inflation.

Kalu's allegations raise questions about accountability in public service and the sources of wealth among Nigeria's elite, though he provided no specific evidence to support his claims against other billionaires.