Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, has received the support of critical stakeholders to defend his pivotal role in the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
In a statement issued by its Coordinator, Comrade Wisdom Akunna Fabulous, the Coalition of South East Youths for Democracy (CESYD), was one of the stakeholder groups that came out strongly in Kalu’s defence.
In the statement, CESYD described attempts to diminish Kalu’s contributions to the process that eventually led to the passage and presidential assent to the law establishing the SEDC as “unfortunate” and “mischievous”.
The group highlighted the Deputy Speaker’s instrumental role in sponsoring and ensuring the passage of the SEDC bill, from its first reading on October 12, 2023, to its eventual signing into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on July 23, 2024.
CESYD’s defence of Hon Kalu came amidst claims by Dr Josef Onoh, a former campaign spokesman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 elections, attempting to downplay the Deputy Speaker’s efforts.
However, CESYD has challenged Dr Onoh to provide evidence contradicting the verifiable facts surrounding Hon Kalu’s involvement in the SEDC’s establishment.
The coalition emphasised that Hon Kalu’s leadership and commitment to the South East’s development are undeniable.
CESYD praised the Deputy Speaker for prioritizing Igbo interests and issues, stating that his contributions have been instrumental in addressing the region’s long-standing sense of marginalization.
By defending Hon Kalu’s role, CESYD said it aims to set the record straight and prevent the distortion of history.
The group urged individuals to refrain from spreading misinformation and instead focus on constructive contributions to the region’s development.
