A former Commissioner for Information in Abia State, Chief John Okiyi-Kalu has said that he wished that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu was the one representing his Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency.
According to Okiyi-Kalu, what representative Ben Kalu is doing exactly the kind of things he dreamt of seeing a good legislator do for his people.
Listing the reasons why he wished the Deputy Speaker should be his representative, Okiyi-Kalu said, “Consider what he has done: “Helping young people secure federal government jobs, rather than merely turning them into iko onu hirelings.
“Sponsoring legislation with direct benefits to his constituency, including bills establishing at least two tertiary institutions in Bende LGA.
“Successfully advocating for road and water projects for his constituency.
Representing his people exceptionally well in the Green Chambers, with eloquence, knowledge and a style that clearly stands out.”
The PDP stalwarts who equally served as a commissioner for Trade and Investment went on to say, “How I wish Ben of Bende could change his constituency to Arochukwu/Ohafia so I could mobilise support for him to represent us for as long as possible and continue making an even greater impact. I am not one to advocate change when nothing is broken.”
He went ahead to say that looking at the current 2027 political field in my Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, the only candidate who gives me reasonable comfort is the young Ikenna Ukwa.
“He appears genuinely committed to the constituency and seems to understand what he is doing. Even if I do not vote for him, since he does not belong to my political party, I sincerely wish him success and hope he can become our own Ben Kalu. I like his (Ikenna) pedigree, style and experience at the National Assembly.
“Let me be clear: I have absolutely no problem with those putting electoral pressure on Ben of Bende. That is how democracy should work. Bende has many other constitutionally qualified people who may also perform well if elected. However, this should not take away from the fact that Ben has acquitted himself very well as a representative of the people of Bende.”
Okiyi-Kalu went on to advise the Deputy Speaker to be careful about the internal banana peels being laid by some of his fellow APC members.
“Unfortunately, some of those smiling with him before the cameras are also gathering and plotting against him. To them, whatever he has done for the people counts for little because he has refused to bow and tremble before them.
“Hopefully, the great people of Bende will rise above political servitude and sentiments of betrayal to do what is right for themselves and their future.
“If you allow your best to be rigged out or disgraced, that is your business. O metara buru will apply, as always.”
He made a special appeal to the Deputy Speaker saying, “My brother Ben, remember that your constituency shares a boundary with Arochukwu/Ohafia. Please, extend a hand of brotherhood to the people of Abiriba Kingdom by helping our young and highly qualified people secure employment opportunities at the federal level.
“Also, consider supporting the establishment of a major federal tertiary institution at the boundary between Igbere in Bende LGA and Abiriba in Arochukwu/Ohafia LGA. We are brothers, always.”
