…task PBAT Movement to take re-election campaign to 774 LGAs, 8,809 wards
By Gloria Ikibah 
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has rallied support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, urging supporters to intensify grassroots mobilisation across the country.
Kalu made the call on Friday in Abuja at the commissioning of the national secretariat of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, describing the initiative as an investment in public engagement and a lasting relationship between leaders and citizens.
The lawmaker, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State and serves as Director-General of Presidential Campaign Council 11 (South), commended Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to national development.
He said: “Leadership at a demanding moment in history requires conviction, resilience and the willingness to confront difficult choices. Our President has demonstrated these qualities while pursuing an ambitious agenda for national renewal. Our responsibility as leaders is to ensure that reform delivers practical improvements in their lives.”
Kalu said the President’s pursuit of a stronger, more productive and inclusive Nigeria was reflected in initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides financial support for eligible students to access higher education, and the establishment of regional development commissions.
He also expressed appreciation to Tinubu for assenting to the South-East Development Commission Act, describing it as a significant step towards addressing the region’s reconstruction, infrastructure and development needs.
“As a representative of Bende Federal Constituency, I particularly appreciate President Tinubu’s assent to the South-East Development Commission Act, an important step towards addressing reconstruction, infrastructure and development priorities in our region”, Kalu said.
The Deputy Speaker also praised the convener and Grand Patron of the PBAT Movement, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, for providing the initiative, commitment and resources required to establish the movement’s national secretariat.
He urged members to strengthen their grassroots structures and extend their mobilisation efforts to all 774 local government areas and 8,809 wards ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Kalu said the movement must take its activities to communities across the country, while ensuring that its campaign remained responsive to the concerns of ordinary Nigerians.
He further called on members to uphold democratic values by encouraging peaceful participation and open engagement with citizens.
“Nigeria benefits when citizens can exchange ideas peacefully and participate in public life with confidence and dignity,” Kalu said.
The Deputy Speaker’s remarks were contained in a statement issued on Friday by Levinus Nwabughiogu, his Chief Press Secretary.
