Member representing Bende Federal Constituency and Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu paid a courtesy visit to the Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika who also doubles as his inlaw at his Ovim country home in Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Abia State on Saturday, February 4, 2023.
Speaking to the Former Chief of Army Staff, the Representative stated that he had come to pay him a well deserved honour irrespective of family ties as one of the key stakeholders not just for his senatorial zone and the region but also the nation at large adding that as he made the region proud being the first Igbo General who served the Nation diligently during his time as the Chief of Army Staff which has made him a true inspiration to him. He emphasized that in following the footsteps of the General in national leadership, he has not disappointed the good people of Bende. In his words;
“Sir, just like you attracted few things back home during your time in the Army, I also decided that I will bring back things that will showcase that once upon a time I was at the House of Representatives and I am glad that I did not return empty-handed.” He said
The Honourable Member formally informed the General of his bid to return to the House to continue the good works he has started for Bende Federal Constituency and the Nation at large, while listing his achievements so far in the last three years including his legacy project, the Eme Nkpa bridge which is nearing completion and other ecological projects. The first House Motion of the 9th House of Representatives HM-001, scoring the first in bill presentation among all first time members of the House, fourth nationally as well as first in Abia State and the entire Southeast. According to him:
“I want to go back to the House of representatives because some the needs of Bende people still stares at me and only the first phase of my manifesto has been accomplished. An experienced patriotic Bende man needs to be there to sustain the current flow of the dividends of democracy of Bende. I am quite prepared, experienced and ready to do better than I did in my first tenure”
I recognise that as one of the Key Stakeholders in this zone, State and Region. I cannot take the decision to go back to the House without drawing the right stakeholders administration list which includes men of timber and calibre like you. Respect and honour behoves me to come and seek for your blessings”
Responding to the lawmaker, The General expressed delight in the visit by Rep. Kalu, He acknowledged his outstanding performance in the House of Representatives stressing that he has been getting feedback from Bende Constituents, particularly from Nkpa who have expressed their gratitude for the construction of the roads and bridges which have been in a terrible condition for over 6 decades. He added that he is indeed proud of him. In his words:
“It is a thing of honour and pride to pray for the success of a person who is doing well and determined to improve. You have my blessings”
I can only call on other leaders in the state to emulate the good examples you have set.
I am also proud that by some coincidence, we belong to the same party, the All Progressives Congress, it is individuals that fortify and protect the party. Keep doing the work you do and God will fulfill your desires.”
He acknowledged the members of the Benjamin Kalu Campaign Council who accompanied the Representative for the visit while describing as a team of quality men. He encouraged them to continue to work hard. He finally prayed for the Honorable member asking God to continue to bless and protect him.
