- Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu clarified his relationship with Minister Nkiriuka Onyejiocha, denying allegations of a rift and urging focus on their duties
- Kalu emphasized the need for leaders to set positive examples for the youth and encouraged Onyejiocha to clarify her stance
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has issued a statement clarifying his position regarding the alleged rift with the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiriuka Onyejiocha.
In the statement, Kalu distanced himself from the alleged campaign of calumny with Onyejiocha. He expressed that he is too busy with national assignments to engage in any dispute with anyone. He emphasized that the allegations were made by one Usman Shuaibu during a press briefing, describing them as a false alarm and an intentional attempt to cause disaffection between them.
Kalu emphasized that he shares a healthy relationship with Onyejiocha as a sister and partner in government, and there is no basis for political conflict between them. He highlighted that he has consistently sought support for Onyejiocha and encouraged Abia APC leaders to rally around her even before she became a minister.
The statement suggested that there might be undisclosed information regarding a legal battle that ended with Kalu securing victory at the Court of Appeal, affirming his electoral mandate after challenges from LP and AA. Kalu called on both parties to focus on their duties instead of engaging in confrontations, encouraging youths to occupy the National Assembly.
Kalu further stressed that leaders should set positive examples for the youth and work together to build Nigeria rather than engaging in infighting. He expressed his commitment to his responsibilities and stated he would not be distracted or coerced by anyone calling for his sanction.
Kalu expressed concerns about Onyejiocha’s silence following the press conference, which he interpreted as implying that she may be associated with the false accusations against him. He urged Onyejiocha to clarify her stance and not allow her integrity to be tarnished by those making unfounded allegations.