Ikenga Ugochinyere, the lawmaker representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency of Imo State, said Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has earned the confidence of the Southern political class due to his leadership style and character.
Ugochinyere, who also serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), made this known in a statement issued in chairs
He commended Kalu’s efforts in building sustainable political bridges for emerging leaders from the Southeast region and advancing development initiatives for the geopolitical zone.
SEDC Role
The lawmaker praised Kalu’s pivotal role in the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), describing it as a crucial step towards reestablishing and reconciling the region.
He noted that the commission, which has now been established with its board constituted and confirmed by the National Assembly, has been allocated over N340 billion in the 2025 Appropriation Bill to drive regional development.
Ugochinyere also lauded Kalu’s Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), an initiative aimed at addressing socio-economic and security challenges in the region. According to him, the project is already making an impact just a year after its launch, providing a multi-stakeholder approach to resolving conflicts and boosting economic growth.
Push for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release
The lawmaker further highlighted Kalu’s advocacy for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. He noted that the deputy speaker has taken it upon himself to push for Kanu’s freedom, believing it to be a crucial step toward lasting peace in the region.
“A few days ago, he appealed to President Bola Tinubu to temper justice with mercy and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Kalu strongly believes that Kanu’s release will significantly reduce insecurity in the Southeast and create a conducive environment for the development that the SEDC aims to bring,” Ugochinyere stated.
With Kalu’s increasing influence and strategic efforts, Ugochinyere expressed optimism that the Southeast is on the path to political stability, security, and economic transformation
