The Traditional Rulers Council of Bende South State Constituency (Ikwuisi) has thrown its weight behind the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for a third term in the National Assembly.
The monarchs pledged to mobilise support for his re-election in 2027 while dismissing claims of an existing zoning arrangement for the Bende Federal Constituency seat.
The endorsement was made during a meeting between the royal fathers and the Deputy Speaker in Bende, where the monarchs unanimously declared that Kalu’s performance in office had earned him the confidence of the people and justified another mandate.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Chairman of the Council, Eze Uchendu Okorie, Ekwo II of Akaekwo Uzuakoli, commended the Deputy Speaker for what he described as exceptional representation and visible development across the constituency.
“What you’re doing in Bende Federal Constituency is commendable. We are fully supporting you. Keep moving forward. We hear and watch impressive stories about your achievements in the news. It is not easy, but you are doing well. Be courageous and do not lose sleep over anything. Uzuakoli and all the wards in Bende are fully behind you. All of us here, in one voice, are saying you should go for a third term. After that, we can come to the table and discuss other issues. We are solidly behind you and we will walk the talk. Whoever is contesting against you is challenging efficiency and competence, and we will not allow that. You have done well and we are proud of you,” the monarch said.
Monarchs Dismiss Zoning, Praise Kalu’s National Clout
Other members of the council echoed similar sentiments, applauding Kalu’s legislative accomplishments, constituency projects, national visibility and effective representation, which they said had elevated the profile of Bende Federal Constituency.
Addressing the controversy surrounding zoning of the House of Representatives seat, one of the monarchs, Eze P.C. Onyegbu, insisted that no formal zoning arrangement had ever existed for the constituency.
He argued that Kalu had set a new benchmark in legislative representation through his record of constituency development, oversight, strategic engagement and ability to attract federal projects to the area.
“The issue of zoning has always been distorted. We know the struggles that brought us to where we are today. Of all those who have represented Bende in the House of Representatives, none has surpassed what Benjamin Kalu has done. In terms of projects, quality representation, oversight functions, networking and attracting federal presence, he has distinguished himself.
“A legislator must build strong relationships across the country. Without networking, you cannot attract meaningful projects to your constituency. His ability to build bridges is one of the reasons Bende is benefiting today. The image he created for the House projected him to the office he currently occupies. The position of Deputy Speaker is not an ordinary one. If Bende compromises this opportunity, we will live to regret it. His position is not only important to Bende but also to Abia State, the South East and the entire Igbo nation. We are proud of him and we will take his message and promises to our people,” Onyegbu stated.
Also speaking, Eze Patrick Udeh of Bende said Kalu’s stewardship had continued to earn admiration beyond the constituency, describing him as a source of pride to both Bende and the wider Igbo nation.
“God’s grace is upon you. You are serving us well, not only in Bende but across Igboland. Anyone seeking to contest against you should first show us what they have done so that comparisons can be made. The traditional rulers of Bende are not joking. We are fully behind you. Go for a third term without fear and continue making us proud,” he said.
Responding, Kalu expressed gratitude to the royal fathers for their support, prayers and confidence in his leadership, assuring them that he would continue to justify their trust through effective representation and accelerated development.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted a number of interventions attracted to Bende Federal Constituency in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, among other sectors, saying the achievements reflected the benefits of purposeful leadership and collaboration with the people.
“I am deeply humbled by your confidence and support. Everything we have achieved has been possible because of your prayers, cooperation and trust. I remain committed to providing quality representation, attracting more development projects and ensuring that Bende continues to enjoy the benefits of effective leadership. By the grace of God, the best is still ahead of us,” Kalu said.
The endorsement comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gather momentum across the country, with stakeholders in various constituencies beginning consultations over the composition of party tickets.
For Kalu, who was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2019 and re-elected in 2023 before emerging as Deputy Speaker of the 10th House, the backing of the traditional institution adds to growing support from key political and community stakeholders in Bende Federal Constituency.
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Whether these traditional rulers are right or wrong in their assessment of the deputy speaker, the dignity and effectiveness of their stools are best preserved when they remain apolitical.
Hmm, when the political stakeholders say they are doing well, what else must one do? What exactly is the measurements for the benchmark of doing well? Growth? Human development index? Gross domestic product?
Non the less congratulations on your endorsement.