Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has voiced his disappointment over what he describes as inadequate political participation from his constituents in the Southeast region of Nigeria.
Speaking during a recent interview on Arise News, Kalu called for greater unity and voter turnout in the region to strengthen its position in national politics.
“Just like the president is asking for partnership, I know the governors are also asking for partnership,” Kalu stated.
He emphasized the importance of collective action, especially during elections, to build a “formidable front” for the Southeast.
Referring to the last election, Kalu highlighted the regional coordination between political leaders, saying, “On the day of election, the governor will be in Imo state, I’ll be in Abia state, working for the same president.”
He stressed the significance of delivering strong results from Abia state to boost the Southeast’s influence in negotiations with the federal government.
“I can assure you he will be happy if I bring a good result from me Abia state to add to what he has so that when we go to the table to negotiate for southeast there will be enormous vote,” he added.
Kalu’s frustration was most evident when he declared, “I’m tired of my people sitting on the fence. I’m tired of my people not bringing enough votes to the center because it affects my negotiation when I want to speak for my people. I am wearing the shoe and I know where he’s pinching me. I know what I’m being told when I want to negotiate for my people.
