By Mercy Aikoye
Traditional rulers from Bende South State Constituency (Ikwuisi) in Abia State have endorsed the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for a third term in the House, dismissing claims that the Bende Federal Constituency seat is subject to a zoning arrangement.
The royal fathers declared their position during a meeting with the Deputy Speaker, led by the Chairman of the Bende South State Constituency Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Uchendu Okorie, the Ekwo II of Akaekwo Uzuakoli on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Eze Okorie commended Kalu’s legislative performance and developmental interventions across Bende Federal Constituency, describing his representation as exceptional.
He said the traditional rulers were unanimous in their support for Kalu’s re-election bid, insisting that discussions on any power-sharing arrangement could only come after the completion of another term.
“We are fully behind you. What you are doing in Bende Federal Constituency is commendable, and we are proud of your achievements. All of us here, in one voice, are asking you to seek a third term. After that, we can discuss other issues,” the monarch said.
The royal fathers also dismissed claims of an existing zoning agreement for the House of Representatives seat.
One of the monarchs, Eze P.C. Onyegbu, said there had never been any formal zoning arrangement for the constituency, arguing that Kalu’s performance had earned him the right to seek another mandate.
According to him, no previous representative of the constituency had matched Kalu’s record in attracting infrastructure projects, strengthening oversight, building strategic partnerships and facilitating federal government presence in the area.
He added that Kalu’s emergence as Deputy Speaker had elevated the profile of Bende, Abia State and the South-East, warning against sacrificing the opportunity through what he described as unfounded zoning arguments.
Also speaking, Eze Patrick Udeh of Bende said Kalu had continued to make both Bende and the Igbo nation proud through effective representation and called on the people to support his re-election.
Responding, Kalu thanked the traditional rulers for their endorsement and confidence in his leadership.
The Deputy Speaker said the support of the traditional institution had contributed significantly to his achievements, highlighting projects executed in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment.
He pledged to sustain quality representation and attract more development projects to Bende Federal Constituency 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 quality representation and attracting more development projects for our people,” Kalu said.
