The Bende South State Constituency (Ikwuisi) Traditional Rulers Council has thrown its weight behind the third-term re-election bid of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, while dismissing claims of an existing zoning arrangement for the Bende Federal Constituency seat.
The royal fathers made their position known during a meeting with the Deputy Speaker, led by the Chairman of the Council, Eze Uchendu Okorie, Ekwo II of Akaekwo Uzuakoli, in Bende, Abia State.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Eze Okorie praised Kalu’s legislative performance and developmental strides, declaring that all traditional rulers in Bende were united in supporting his return to the House of Representatives for a third term.
He said Kalu’s achievements in office had earned him the confidence of the people, insisting that anyone seeking to challenge him was contesting against “efficiency and competence.”
“We are speaking with one voice. Go for a third term. We are solidly behind you and we will match our words with action. You have represented Bende exceptionally well, and we are proud of your achievements,” the monarch said.
The traditional rulers also rejected claims that the House of Representatives seat was subject to a zoning arrangement.
One of the monarchs, Eze P.C. Onyegbu, described the zoning narrative as misleading, insisting there had never been any such agreement for the constituency.
He argued that Kalu had outperformed all previous representatives of the constituency through impactful constituency projects, quality representation, effective legislative oversight, strategic networking and his ability to attract federal projects to Bende.
“The issue of zoning has been deliberately distorted. There has never been such an arrangement. Benjamin Kalu has surpassed everyone who has represented Bende in the House of Representatives. His performance, influence and ability to attract development are unmatched.
“The office of the Deputy Speaker is a strategic national position. Losing such an opportunity would be a disservice not only to Bende but to Abia State, the South-East and the entire Igbo nation,” Onyegbu said.
Also speaking, Eze Patrick Udeh of Bende said Kalu had continued to make Bende and the Igbo nation proud through effective representation.
He challenged anyone seeking to contest the seat against the Deputy Speaker to first present a record of achievements for comparison.
“The traditional rulers of Bende are fully behind you. Seek a third term without fear and continue the good work you are doing for our people,” he said.
Responding, Kalu expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their endorsement, describing their support as a source of encouragement.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted projects and interventions attracted to the constituency in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, among other sectors.
He pledged to sustain quality representation and attract more development projects if re-elected.
“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 delivering more dividends of democracy and ensuring Bende continues to benefit from effective leadership. The best is still ahead of us,” Kalu said.
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