Mercy Adewunmi
In a recent interview, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, stirred controversy by expressing his desire for an APC Governor to occupy Abia government house in 2027. This statement has led to a heated debate among political figures in the state.
Known for his outspoken nature and commitment to the politics of inclusivity, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has been praised for his efforts to improve his constituency, state, and region. Meanwhile, his counterpart, Obi Aguocha, who represents Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal constituency, has come under fire for his lacklustre performance and failure to deliver on promises to his constituents.
While Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has received overwhelming support from his constituents in Bende Federal Constituency for his exceptional work, Obi Aguocha is facing a recall process initiated by his own constituents due to his perceived incompetence. Despite this, Aguocha has been criticized for prioritizing political alliances over serving the needs of his constituents.
The people of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal constituency continue to express disappointment in Obi Aguocha’s representation, with many feeling let down by his lack of progress and impact in the area. In contrast, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu’s popularity and support in Bende are evident through the recent influx of new party members.
As the political landscape in Abia State evolves, the contrasting performances of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and Obi Aguocha highlight the importance of effective leadership and accountability in government. While Kalu’s bold statement has sparked debate, Aguocha’s lack of substantial achievement has raised concerns among his constituents.