Elders from different autonomous communities in Bende Ward, Bende LGA of Abia State, have called on their traditional ruler, Eze Sir Anthony Okorochukwu, the Ohuhu IV of Bende Ancient Kingdom, to intervene in the growing political tension between their son, Rt Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu.
In a strong show of unity and concern, the delegation of elders led by Chief Hon. Emmanuel Onwuchekwa, former Chairman of Bende LGA, paid a respectful visit to Eze Okorochukwu to formally present their concerns and report the matter, with the hope that all Ezes in Bende Local Government will come together and call Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu to order.
Bende Ward elders said that their appeal is for the traditional institution to step in and restore balance, reminding everyone that political ambition should never destroy brotherhood, divide the people, or create avoidable conflict within the community.
DrumAfricanews reports that the President General of Bende Autonomous Community, Sir John Kwubiri Kalu, alongside other respected elders and stakeholders, was present and spoke passionately on the need to protect the peace, unity, and dignity of Bende.
“Ben is not stopping Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu from contesting for Senate. They are contesting for two different positions. Why then should there be this level of hostility?” the elders enquire while laying their complaints to the king.
They insisted that it is wrong to create the impression that Ben’s political rise is solely tied to anyone’s personal benevolence, stressing that he earned his place through hard work, capacity, and visible excellence.
The elders also made it clear that never for once has Benjamin Kalu disobeyed, disrespected, or dishonoured Senator Orji Uzor-Kalu.
They also maintained that the Deputy Speaker has always shown respect, loyalty, and regard for Orji Uzor-Kalu even in difficult political moments.
The Bende elders recalled that even when he found his way into the House of Representatives, he distinguished himself through performance and competence, rising to become spokesperson and eventually deputy speaker not by favour, but by merit.
They also pointed out that when it was time for his second term, opposition came strongly against him, yet he prevailed because of the people and his proven leadership.
The elders went further to firmly state, “If Senator Orji Uzor Kalu truly made Benjamin Kalu as claimed, he would have brought him into power much earlier when he was governor.” Ben found his own path and proved himself.”
The elders further warned that the continued pressure, hostility, and constant attacks against Benjamin Kalu are gradually escalating beyond ordinary politics and could create unnecessary communal tension in Bende.
According to them, the son of Bende Ward has been bullied enough, and allowing this situation to continue unchecked may turn political disagreement into a communal crisis.
They maintained that Orji Uzor-Kalu should leave Benjamin Kalu alone. Whatever is being done to Ben is being done to Bende Ward.”
