The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Benjamin Kalu, has restated his respect for the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, dismissing any suggestion of political rivalry between them and calling for stronger collaboration in the delivery of development projects.
Dr. Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, made this known while addressing the challenges surrounding the implementation of the Ohumola Project, a federal intervention he attracted to the Igbere community in Bende Local Government Area.
He stressed that governance should be driven by cooperation rather than competition, warning that projects designed to improve the lives of citizens should never be stalled because of political differences or administrative bottlenecks.
“I respect my governor and I am not in competition with him. Development is not a contest,” Kalu said, questioning why projects meant for public good would face obstacles at the grassroots level.
The Deputy Speaker recalled that during the previous Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration in Abia State, he successfully executed constituency projects in schools and communities without any form of obstruction, despite political differences.
“At no time did the PDP government stop me from carrying out projects in schools. It should not be difficult to bring interventions to our people. I go to Abuja to attract projects, only for them to be stalled,” he noted.
Dr. Kalu emphasized the need for effective synergy between federal and state authorities to achieve sustainable development, adding that political offices are temporary and collective effort is necessary to create lasting impact.
“No one remains in office forever. If I am constructing a road in one area, another road can be handled elsewhere. The real winners are the people when leaders work together,” he said.
While reaffirming his respect for Governor Otti, the Deputy Speaker suggested that some of the challenges may not be the governor’s direct actions but could be linked to individuals around him, whom he alleged may be driven by personal ambitions rather than official directives.
He concluded by pledging his continued commitment to quality representation and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Bende Federal Constituency, while maintaining mutual respect and cooperation with the Abia State Government.