Introduction to the Deputy Speaker’s Statement
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has made several key statements regarding the political landscape of Nigeria, particularly concerning the Southeast and Southwest regions. He emphasized the importance of a strategic alliance between these two regions for the emergence of an Igbo president. Additionally, Kalu mentioned that over $10 billion has been saved from subsidy removal in 2023, highlighting the economic impact of recent policy decisions.
The Path to an Igbo Presidency
Kalu declared that a strategic political alliance between the Southeast and Southwest remains the shortest and most realistic route to the emergence of an Igbo president in Nigeria. He made this assertion during a series of high-level courtesy visits across Abia State’s three senatorial zones, where he engaged elder statesmen and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on party unity, electoral strategy, and the future of the South East in national politics.
The Need for Calculated Political Investments
He urged Igbo leaders and voters to move away from sentimental politics and embrace calculated political investments, stressing that votes must be deployed where they count toward power, influence, and negotiation. According to Kalu, sustained support for the South West, particularly under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would strengthen trust, inclusion, and reciprocity, ultimately positioning the South East favorably for the presidency.
Consolidating the Southern Political Corridor
Kalu emphasized the importance of consolidating the southern political corridor to prevent a return of power to regions that may not prioritize the interests of the Southeast. He warned that any attempt to break the unity of the South through sentiment would weaken the Southeast politically and take them backwards.
Engaging with Party Leaders
As part of efforts to strengthen APC structures in Abia State, Kalu visited several key party leaders, including former Senate Chief Whip and former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in Abia North; Senator John Bob Nwannunu in Abia Central; and former Managing Director and CEO of the defunct Hallmark Bank and APC chieftain, Sir Mac Wabara, in Abia South. Discussions focused on party cohesion, stakeholder alignment, and the need for sustained collaboration to strengthen the APC and stabilize the polity.
President Tinubu’s Leadership and Performance
Kalu praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing his policies as tough but necessary, courageous, and already yielding results. He argued that the President has demonstrated political will, inclusiveness, and readiness to work with the South East. Kalu also presented his two-year scorecard to the elder statesmen and party leaders, inviting open assessment of his performance.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Charging party stakeholders to intensify grassroots mobilization, Kalu expressed confidence that the APC now has the structure, momentum, and political capital to deliver an outright victory for President Tinubu in Abia State. The era of negotiating for just 25 percent of votes in Abia State is over, according to Kalu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu’s statements highlight the importance of strategic political alliances, calculated investments, and party unity in achieving political goals, particularly for the Southeast region. His support for President Tinubu’s leadership and his efforts to strengthen the APC in Abia State demonstrate a commitment to inclusive governance and political progress.
FAQs
- Q: What is the estimated amount saved from subsidy removal in 2023?
A: Over $10 billion. - Q: What region does Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu believe is crucial for an Igbo presidency?
A: The Southwest. - Q: Who did Kalu visit during his courtesy visits across Abia State?
A: Key party leaders including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Senator John Bob Nwannunu, and Sir Mac Wabara. - Q: What is Kalu’s assessment of President Tinubu’s leadership?
A: He describes it as tough but necessary, courageous, and already yielding results. - Q: What is the focus of Kalu’s efforts in Abia State?
A: To strengthen APC structures and promote party unity and cohesion.
