Traditional Rulers in Igbere ancient kingdom, Bende Local Government of Abia State have declared their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law.
The traditional rulers also commended the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu for sponsoring the bill in the parliament.
The traditional rulers made the commitments during the visit of the deputy speaker to Igbere Ward A and B Wednesday evening.
Recall that Kalu who represents Bende federal constituency in Abia State on Saturday, August 3, commenced a tour of the 13 electoral wards that made up the constituency.
Welcoming Kalu to Igbere Ward B, different groups of men, women and youth expressed gratitude to the deputy speaker for attracting legacy projects to the area, saying their support for APC government remained strong.
Speaking on behalf of Igbere traditional rulers, Eze Roland Ekeoma lauded President Tinubu for signing the SEDC bill into law, also commended Kalu for effectively representating the constituency.
A statement by Kalu’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu stated that the monarch decorated the deputy speaker in special cultural attire and handed him a machete, signifying strength and encouragement.
The traditional rulers also offered prayers for greater political heights, emphasizing their unalloyed support for Kalu.
He also received “Pillar of Youth” award from the Presbyterian Young Peoples Association of Nigeria (PYPAN) of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Amaukwu Igbere Parish.
In his remarks, Kalu who donated some bags of rice and fertilizers said he was in Igbere to appreciate the people for supporting him in 2023 general elections.
The deputy speaker had earlier visited Igbere Ward A where he appreciated the people for their support.
On his arrival, Kalu was welcomed by youth and women groups who sang different songs in solidarity with the deputy speaker.
Both visits to Ward A and B witnessed the defection of some notable politicians from the other political parties into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), among whom was the 2023 Abia House of Assembly candidate of Young Progressives Party ( YPP) for Bende North State Constituency, Mr. Okey Iboko.