The Abia State Labour Party (LP) Caucus in the House of Representatives has expressed deep concern over recent political tensions in the state, which they attribute to what they described as “unguarded and divisive statements” made by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Member representing Bende Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
In a strongly worded press statement, the caucus said it was dismayed by Hon. Kalu’s repeated claims that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would “capture Abia” in 2027 a remark they believe undermines the spirit of good governance and unity that Abians currently enjoy under Governor Alex Otti’s administration.
According to the lawmakers, Hon. Kalu’s comments, made shortly after assuming the position of Deputy Speaker, reflect “arrogance and insensitivity unbecoming of a national leader.” They accused him of engaging in actions aimed at discrediting the state government and inciting unnecessary political tension in Abia.
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LP Caucus: Kalu’s Actions Driven by Ambition, Not Service
The Abia LP Caucus alleged that Hon. Kalu’s behavior follows a pattern of divisive politics and self-serving ambition. They said his recent utterances and conduct are designed to curry favor with the ruling party at the center while sowing discord between the Federal Government and Abia State.
“This is not leadership,” the statement read. “It is a strategy of incitement and distraction, intended to discredit the progress being recorded under Governor Otti’s administration.”
Otti’s Leadership Commended for Maturity and Inclusiveness
The lawmakers highlighted Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to governance, inclusivity, and respect for institutions, noting that despite belonging to different political parties, the Governor had demonstrated goodwill toward Hon. Kalu.
They recalled that Governor Otti personally directed Labour Party members in the House to support Kalu’s emergence as Deputy Speaker and even hosted an elaborate state reception in his honor. The caucus lamented that instead of reciprocating this gesture, Kalu chose to “stoke the embers of political disharmony.”
“Governor Otti has shown political maturity and magnanimity. His leadership is focused on peace, progress, and development, not petty politics,” the statement continued.
Abia’s Development Under Otti’s Watch
The caucus emphasized that under Governor Otti, several key federal and state-backed infrastructure projects are ongoing across Abia, including:
Reconstruction of the Port Harcourt Road, Aba
Rehabilitation of the Ohafia–Arochukwu Road
Construction of the Omenuko Bridge
The soon-to-be-flagged-off 25km Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road
“These are tangible results real leadership that delivers dividends of democracy to the people,” the lawmakers noted.
They urged Hon. Kalu, who often refers to himself as “number six” in national protocol, to use his office to attract development and federal support to Abia rather than “playing cheap politics.”
Abians Urged to Remain United
The LP Caucus called on Abians across all political lines to remain united and continue supporting Governor Otti’s transformative agenda. They also urged citizens to ignore divisive rhetoric and focus on sustaining peace and development in the state.
“Abians are politically discerning,” the statement concluded. “They understand that Hon. Kalu’s actions are driven by personal ambition, not public interest. Governor Otti maintains a cordial relationship with Mr. President, and no amount of scheming will derail Abia’s progress. Ultimately, power belongs to God Almighty.”
Signed:
Labour Party House of Representatives Caucus, Abia State