Traditional rulers in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, have endorsed the 2027 re-election bid of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
The monarchs made their position known on Wednesday when Kalu visited them during his “Meet Your Constituents” tour of traditional institutions in Igbere. Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, His Royal Majesty, Eze Joseph Ukaoha Anyanta, praised Kalu for what he described as an exceptional record of legislative representation.
Anyanta said Kalu’s performance since assuming office had distinguished him from previous representatives of the area since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999. He particularly pointed to Kalu’s legislative interventions, infrastructure projects and representation of his constituents as evidence of his performance in office.
“Yours is an outstanding legislative service, the best since 1999. Yours is different and we are seeing it all over the place,” the monarch said.
The traditional rulers subsequently offered their royal blessings to the Deputy Speaker and pledged their continued support for his political ambition. According to Anyanta, the monarchs were prepared to support Kalu in his efforts to continue representing the people of Bende.
“We are giving you our support so that you can do your work in peace,” he said.
He also prayed for Kalu’s success, asking God to grant him the strength and opportunity to accomplish what he described as his aspirations for Bende.
“Anyone who wishes you evil will not succeed. We pray to God to give you the grace to achieve your lofty dreams for Bende,” Anyanta added.
The traditional ruler further assured the Deputy Speaker that the traditional institution would contribute its support towards the realisation of his political and developmental objectives.
“Whatever we can do to make this a reality, we will do it,” he stated.
The endorsement comes as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with elected representatives increasingly engaging their constituents and traditional institutions across their constituencies.
Kalu’s Meet Your Constituents tour is also providing an avenue for him to interact directly with community leaders and receive feedback on issues affecting residents. The Igbere traditional rulers’ declaration therefore places the traditional institution among the stakeholders expressing support for his continued legislative representation.
