By Mercy Aikoye
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has pledged that the people of the South East will deliver over 70% of their votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election. Kalu made this promise while speaking at Ntalakwu in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. He attributed the expected support to President Tinubu’s commitment to developing Igbo land, particularly through the creation of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
Kalu recalled the promise of reconstruction, rehabilitation, and reintegration made to the people of the region after the civil war in 1970. He noted that President Tinubu has fulfilled this promise by establishing the SEDC, which has been signed into law and funded despite initial skepticism. According to Kalu, this move demonstrates the President’s love for the Igbo people.
The Deputy Speaker was speaking at a grand reception held in his honor by the Atuma Grace Movement, a political structure led by Chief Emeka Atuma. During the event, Kalu was honored with a chieftaincy title of “Dike Eji Aga Mba,” meaning “The People’s Warrior.” He emphasized that the people of the South East will continue to support President Tinubu’s administration.
Kalu also formally received notable sons and daughters of the community who defected from the Labour Party (LP) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). These include Retired Major Akubundu Awa, Chief Wisdom Ogbonna, Chief Kingsley Uwa, and Chief Sir Uche Nwachuwu. The Deputy Speaker welcomed them to the APC, expressing optimism about the party’s growing strength in Abia State.
In his remarks, Kalu urged those in power in Abia State to allow traditional rulers the freedom to engage with government officials without restriction. He expressed concern over reports that traditional rulers were being discouraged from welcoming certain government officials or attending functions promoting President Tinubu. Kalu emphasized that such restrictions are not conducive to good governance and urged the authorities to permit traditional rulers to exercise their mandate.
Chief Emeka Atuma, the host, welcomed the Deputy Speaker and expressed confidence in the APC’s growing presence in Abia State. Atuma described Kalu’s presence as a sign of the party’s ascension to greater heights. He appreciated the Deputy Speaker’s leadership and welcomed him on behalf of the people of Abia.
The creation of the SEDC has been a significant development for the South East region, addressing long-standing demands for infrastructure and economic development. President Tinubu’s commitment to fulfilling the promises made to the Igbo people after the civil war has resonated with many in the region.
The pledge of over 70% of votes from the South East in the 2027 general election underscores the political significance of the SEDC and President Tinubu’s efforts to engage with the region. As the APC continues to strengthen its presence in Abia State, the support of traditional rulers and community leaders will likely play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape.
