As the 2027 general elections draw closer, political realignments and competing interests are expected. However, beyond the noise and political maneuvering, the people of Bende Federal Constituency must ask one fundamental question: Can Bende afford to lose a representative who is delivering measurable results?
The recent perceived gang-up against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, is more than a political contest. To many, it is an attack on the progress, opportunities, and development that Bende has witnessed under his representation.
Benjamin Kalu’s rise to national prominence was not accidental. It is the product of hard work, competence, dedication, and commitment to the social contract he entered into with the people of Bende. He has consistently identified their needs, pursued practical solutions, and delivered on his promises. The overwhelming support he enjoys today is a reflection of the confidence the people have in his leadership.
One of the strongest arguments in favour of Ben Kalu is his ability to attract strategic federal institutions that will transform Bende for generations to come. Among them are:
* Federal College of Education, Bende
* Federal Medical Centre, Bende,
*College of Health Sciences, Bende
These are not ordinary projects. They are catalysts for economic growth and sustainable development. They will create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, encourage urbanisation, improve road networks, expand access to potable water and electricity, and place Bende firmly on Nigeria’s development map.
Interestingly, even his critics have struggled to fault his competence, capacity, or legislative effectiveness. Rather, his impressive record appears to be the very reason he has become a target.
As Deputy Speaker, Ben Kalu has distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s most productive lawmakers. With XXX bills already signed into law, he has raised the standard of legislative representation and earned respect both within Nigeria and internationally.
Beyond lawmaking, he has effectively used his office to ensure that opportunities meant for Abia State and Bende in particular are not lost through neglect or political indifference. Where previous opportunities often slipped away or benefited only a privileged few, he has worked to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the people who deserve them. This is the difference between occupying office and making the office work for the people.
The people of Bende understand the value of continuity. They know that development is built through consistency, experience, and strategic leadership, not through unnecessary disruptions driven by personal ambition or sectional interests.
As 2027 approaches, Bende must protect the chain of effective representation it currently enjoys. Breaking a proven, accountable, and high-performing leadership team simply to satisfy political calculations would be a costly mistake.
Leadership should be judged by results, not rhetoric. By that standard, Benjamin Kalu has earned the trust of the people and demonstrated why Bende Federal Constituency should not lose him. The choice before the people is simple: preserve a representation that is delivering tangible dividends or gamble with the uncertain.
For Bende, the answer should be clear.
Chinedu Eze writes from Umuahia, Abia State
