…as Kalu pledge more development for constituents
By Gloria Ikibah
Traditional rulers in Bende South State Constituency (Ikwuisi) have thrown their weight behind the third-term re-election bid of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, dismissing claims that an existing zoning arrangement should prevent him from seeking another mandate in 2027. 
The monarchs made their position known during a meeting with the Deputy Speaker in Bende, where they unanimously praised his performance in office and urged him to seek re-election.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Chairman of the Bende South State Constituency Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Uchendu Okorie, Ekwo II of Akaekwo Uzuakoli, commended Kalu for what he described as quality representation and visible development across the constituency.
He said: “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 royal fathers took turns to commend the Deputy Speaker’s legislative achievements, constituency projects and influence within the National Assembly, describing his tenure as one that has attracted unprecedented federal presence to Bende Federal Constituency.
One of the monarchs, Eze P.C. Onyegbu, dismissed reports of a zoning arrangement for the House of Representatives seat, insisting that no such agreement existed.
“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 said Kalu’s leadership had brought pride not only to Bende but to the entire South-East.
“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 thanked the traditional rulers for their endorsement and confidence in his leadership, describing their support as a source of inspiration.
He highlighted several projects attracted to the constituency in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, assuring the people that he remained committed to delivering more dividends of democracy.
“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,” the Deputy Speaker said.
The meeting comes amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with traditional rulers in the constituency expressing confidence that continuity in representation would further advance development across Bende Federal Constituency.
