Bende traditional rulers endorse Kalu for third term, reject zoning claims

…Kalu pledges more quality representation

By Gift ChapiOdekina

The Traditional Rulers Council of Bende South State Constituency (Ikwuisi) has thrown its weight behind the third-term bid of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, dismissing claims that the Bende Federal Constituency seat is subject to any zoning arrangement.

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, where they declared that the people of Bende are proud of Kalu’s performance and urged him to seek re-election in 2027.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Eze Okorie commended Kalu’s legislative accomplishments and developmental projects across the constituency, describing his representation as exceptional.

He said the people of Bende have watched the Deputy Speaker’s achievements with pride and remain united in their support for his continued representation.

“What you’re doing in Bende Federal Constituency is commendable. We are fully supporting you. We hear and watch impressive stories about your achievements in the news. It is not easy, but you are doing well.

“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. Whoever is contesting against you is challenging efficiency and competence. You have done well and we are proud of you,” the monarch said.

The traditional rulers, who spoke individually during the meeting, praised Kalu’s legislative performance, constituency projects, effective oversight, and ability to attract federal presence and development to Bende.

Eze P.C. Onyegbu dismissed claims that the House of Representatives seat in Bende was ever zoned, insisting that no such agreement exists.

According to him, Kalu has surpassed all previous representatives of the constituency through impactful projects, strategic networking and quality representation.

“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. His position as Deputy Speaker is not only beneficial to Bende but also to Abia State, the South-East and the entire Igbo nation. We are proud of him,” he said.

Also speaking, Eze Patrick Udeh of Bende said Kalu had continued to make both Bende and the Igbo nation proud through his leadership and service.

He challenged anyone seeking to contest against the Deputy Speaker to first demonstrate comparable achievements, stressing that the traditional rulers remained firmly behind Kalu’s third-term aspiration.

Responding, Kalu expressed gratitude to the royal fathers for their confidence and support, attributing his achievements to the prayers and cooperation of the people.

The Deputy Speaker highlighted key projects attracted to the constituency in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, among others.

He assured the traditional rulers that he would continue to pursue more developmental projects and provide quality representation 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 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,” Kalu said.