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Tag: Kalu

  • Breakthrough: Reps’ Deputy Speaker, Kalu, Finance Minister, Edun resolve indigenous contractors crisis with FG

    Breakthrough: Reps’ Deputy Speaker, Kalu, Finance Minister, Edun resolve indigenous contractors crisis with FG

    The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, Thursday, successfully brokered a resolution through his intervention, bringing an end to the standoff between the Federal Government and indigenous contractors of Nigeria.

    This came after the contractors, owed for months, staged a protest in Abuja.

    Following his appointment as Chairman of the House Special Committee on Budget Implementation by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, Kalu convened an expanded meeting with the contractors numbering over 80 across the country with their leadership for an open dialogue on the issue.

    In attendance were also the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr. Shamseldeen Ogunjimi and other top government officials.

    After a marathon meeting lasting over four hours, Kalu announced that all parties have resolved the issues in the interest of the economy.

    Kalu’s intervention was hailed by the parties who said that it averted further disruptions, demonstrating the effectiveness of dialogue in resolving disputes.

    To this end, payments to contractors are expected to commence from Monday.

    Speaking at the end of the meeting, the Deputy Speaker said that a mutually beneficial agreement was reached, expressing his gratitude to the Speaker of the House and his colleagues for entrusting him with the responsibility.

    He also announced subsequent meetings later this month to evaluate progress.

    He said: “First of all, I want to thank the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, PhD, GCON, the leadership of the House for finding me worthy to be the Chairman of Budget Implementation Committee. We met yesterday, cut down our holidays to be able to reconvene and look into this all important matters.

    “We met on Wednesday with Finance Minister, Minister of Budget and Planning, Accountant-General of the Federation, Representatives that cut across all the caucuses of the House, including representation from the House Appropriation Commitee and Finance.

    “We saw the protest and asked them to come, lets have a conversation. I want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for appointing these gentlemen to occupy the positions they occupy.

    “They have shown humility in service. They’ve shown diligence in the way this matter has been handled and the parliament we are happy that all we discussed yesterday they started implementing today, the ability to engage with the people.

    “We had over 4 hours engagement and they left here smiling. We got the strategy in place, and we’re going to come back on the 21st of this month to review what we’ve done so far, how we’ve ticked the boxes, what needs to be done and the way forward.”

    Also speaking, the minister of finance, Edun commended the Deputy Speaker for his intervention, assuring that the payment will commence next week.

    “Under the leadership of the Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, we did hold a marathon meeting today where all the issues were discussed and a timeline was put in place and a way forward was mapped out and all parties at the end of it left knowing that contractors would be paid for jobs done and we have an orderly and systematic way of dealing with the backlogs which had approved overtime.

    “Once again, we commend the leadership of the House of Representatives and the contractors for their willingness to sit down and dialogue. The Accountant-General of the Federation made some commitments which helped us to chart the way forward.

    “We had a peaceful solution. A timeline was put in place and everyone accepted that there are steps that need to be taken, approvals, finalization and orderly procedure for payments. After Friday’s holiday, the Central Bank will open again on Monday and payments will commence immediately”, he said.

    The Accountant-General of the Federation, Ogunjimi corroborated the position of the minister of finance.

    “This process is ongoing. We’ve been paying contractors and we will continue to pay. From Monday, payments will start dropping”, he said.

    Earlier in the meeting, the leadership and membership of the association of indigenous contractors of Nigeria expressed satisfaction with the resolutions reached.

    Commending the Deputy Speaker for his intervention, they also pledged to discontinue with the protest.

  • Deputy Speaker, Kalu wants more support for special seats Bill, urges unity among Nigerians

    Deputy Speaker, Kalu wants more support for special seats Bill, urges unity among Nigerians

    As the constitution review process gains momentum, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has asked Nigerians to rally behind the Reserved Seats Bill, urging his colleagues to vote in favour of its passage.

    He said that the move will help shore up Nigeria’s low percentage of female representation in government, currently standing at less than 4%, and increase it to at least 10%.

    Kalu made the plea while giving his remarks at the Australian High Commission Reception and Film event in Abuja to celebrate National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observerance Committee ( NAIDOC) 2025 in Abuja.

    The Reserved Seats Bill sponsored by the Deputy Speaker aims to increase the female representation in the Senate, House of Representatives, and Houses of Assembly, with one seat reserved for a woman in each state.

    Kalu emphasized that the bill is not intended to threaten the positions of the male legislators but rather provide opportunities for women to add value to the governance space.

    He said: “We have the reserved seats bill in our nation at the moment. That bill is for the government to have more inclusiveness, so that we can celebrate the power of women, beyond sports, beyond family management, but in the governance space. If we believe and trust women to do what they do, we can also trust women to handle affairs of the governance of our country beyond what it is at the moment.

    “So, I urge you to urge your friends, the development partners, all non-governmental organizations to throw in more support in the advocacy of what is before us now as a parliament. We are soon going to be voting about how to include more women through this reserved seats. And to break it down, that bill says, let’s have one seat reserved for a woman in a state. It’s not too much, but it will help us shore up our percentage from what it is now, which is less than 4% but at least 10%. It won’t stop us as Nigerians. So, we need you as our allies, friends, the Honorable Members who are in this room. It is not a threat to us. The details of that bill state that they are not coming to contest with the men to reduce their positions. We are saying let there be a separate seat for the women in the Senate, House of Representatives and the Houses of Assembly and together, we begin to show that women are there to add value not to threaten our position. We can do it. We can give women a chance.”

    Kalu also called for unity amongst Nigerians irrespective of their tribe and religion.

    He encouraged the people to take a cue from Australians who have embraced unity in their diversity.

    “That is one of the things and lessons we will take, the ability to accommodate one another, to believe that though we are different, we are the same. That in our diversity is our beauty. It’s not a disadvantage. It’s a strength, because everyone has something to bring to the table.

    “In Australia, all religions are tolerated, all languages are tolerated. All cultures are tolerated. It’s a lesson we must take back to our places, to our different states, to our various religions, to our various cultures. Let us begin to accommodate one another more than we are doing at the moment, knowing truly that the beauty of our nation is in our diversity”, Kalu said.

  • We ‘ll work with you to deliver President Tinubu in 2027, Deputy Speaker, Kalu Assures

    We ‘ll work with you to deliver President Tinubu in 2027, Deputy Speaker, Kalu Assures

    …congratulates New APC Chair, Yilwatda

    …pledges APC Reps’ Caucus, RHP’s Support

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has congratulated Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his emergence as the new national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    In a statement, Kalu described Yilwatda’s unanimous adoption by the National Executive Council (NEC) of APC as a “distinguished honour”.

    Until his appointment, the new national chairman was the minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

    The Deputy Speaker reflected on Yilwatda’s outstanding leadership qualities, unwavering commitment, and tireless dedication to our nation’s progress, expressing optimism that he will bring them to bear in his new office.

    Kalu pledged the support of the APC caucus in the House of Representatives for the new administration at the party headquarters, emphasizing the caucus’ commitment to collaborating with the new leadership to drive national development and implement party policies.

    He also pledged the support of the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP), his personal initiative and a support group used to propagate President Tinubu’s message of Renewed Hope Agenda as well as showcasing the strides of his government.

    Kalu assured the new chairman of the firm support and collaboration of the Renewed Hope Partners (RHP), expressing confidence that his vision and leadership would inspire a new wave of progress and development.

    The Deputy Speaker also reaffirmed the group’s commitment to working with Yilwatda to achieve the party’s objectives and ultimately, deliver President Tinubu’s reelection bid in 2027.

    He said: “Dear Chairman, congratulations on your emergence as the National Chairman of our party. This distinguished honour is a reflection of your outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment, and tireless dedication to our nation’s progress.

    “Your adoption testifies to your capabilities and I am confident that your vision and leadership will inspire a new wave of progress and development.

    “The members of Renewed Hope Partners (RHP), a group of nationwide ardent supporters for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which I founded are delighted to see you lead our party, and we assure you of our support and collaboration.

    “Together, we will work tirelessly to achieve our party’s objectives and build a brighter future for our nation.

    “We also look forward to partnering with you to deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, since we consider his reelection as a joint task.

    “Once again, congratulations on this remarkable achievement. I wish you success and God’s guidance as you embark on this new responsibility”.

  • Deputy Speaker, Kalu lauds Super Falcons on WAFCON victory

    Deputy Speaker, Kalu lauds Super Falcons on WAFCON victory

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has extended his warm congratulations to the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s Women’s National Football Team, on their resounding victory at the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Final in Rabat, Morocco on Saturday, marking a historic 10th title.

    In a statement released on Sunday, Kalu commended the team’s passion, unmatched skill, prowess and undeterred spirit.

    The Deputy Speaker noted that the triumph is not just about a trophy but a symbol of the diligence, resilience, and unstoppable rise of women in sports, governance and other areas of life and endeavours.

    He said that the triumph also marks a significant milestone for Nigerian women’s football, showcasing the team’s dedication to the sport.

    Applauding the team for flying the Nigerian flag high in Morocco, Kalu recalled that the thrilling comeback of a 3-2 goal margin that put the Super Falcons ahead of the host nation and ultimately gave Nigeria the deserved victory was a remarkable display of resilience and determination.

    He pledged continued parliamentary supply for sports development in Nigeria.

    He said: “Congratulations to our Super Falcons, Champions of Africa, on this resounding victory at the just concluded 2024 Women’s African Cup Of Nations (WAFCON) Final in Rabat, Morocco.

    “Your passion and unmatched skill have once again made us all proud. You played with your heart, and an undeterred spirit that reflects the true strength of Nigerian women.

    “This triumph is more than just a trophy. It’s a symbol of the diligence, resilience, and the unstoppable rise of women not just in sports but every other aspect of our society. It’s a reminder that women are capable of achieving great things with the right support.

    “From every corner of our nation, we salute you, standing in ovation for this laudable achievement. Thank you for flying the Nigerian flag high”.

  • Kalu/Otti feud: Ex-lawmaker Onuigbo intervenes

    Kalu/Otti feud: Ex-lawmaker Onuigbo intervenes

    A former federal lawmaker, Mr Sam Onuigbo, has intervened in the political dispute between Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.

    He urged those fueling the crisis to desist, warning that their actions could create unnecessary tension in the state.

    Onuigbo, now a board member of the South East on the North East Development Commission (NEDC), told NAN on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said that Kalu and Otti have been working together cordially to bring development to Abia State.

    He described them as the state’s best assets, whose relationship should be allowed to flourish for the state’s growth.

    Onuigbo dismissed claims that Kalu’s statement about the All Progressives Congress taking over Abia in 2027 was meant to create crisis.

    He stated that the duo’s cordial relationship, built on mutual respect and a passion for development, would not be sacrificed for political gain.

    He warned that attempts to disrupt their partnership could hinder the state’s progress.

    Onuigbo emphasised that no amount of machinations could destroy the relationship between Kalu and Otti, which was crucial for the state’s success.

    He likened them to a team’s best players, essential for winning important games.

  • Rep defends Kalu over call for Abia gov, Otti to join APC

    Rep defends Kalu over call for Abia gov, Otti to join APC

    Rep. Ginger Onwusibe (LP-Abia) has defended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu’s  call for Gov. Alex Otti of Abia to join the All Progressives Congress(APC).

    Onwusibe, the leader of the Labour Party caucus in the House, said this in his response to a statement credited to Rep. Obi Aguocha (LP-Abia) in Abuja on Tuesday.

    Aguocha had said that Kalu’s open remarks against Otti and Abia were condescending and disrespectful to the governor.

    In his response, Onwusibe said, “the Deputy Speaker did nothing wrong by marketing his party, asking Otti to join the APC.

    “What is wrong with what Kalu said? If you listen carefully to what he said, he is only marketing his party and indirectly calling on Oti to come and take an APC ticket.

    “In the video, he said Otti is his friend; they speak every day, and most importantly, he is performing; he didn’t denigrate the governor in this video unless you have another video,“he said.

    The lawmaker said Aguocha would gain nothing by twisting the video to suit his purpose, adding that Kalu’s intention was misinterpreted.

    According to him, he knew Kalu since 2021, and worked with him during his campaign to become the Deputy Speaker, and luckily he emerged.

    He said that as the Deputy Speaker, he was bound to hold him in high regard as his leader in the House of Reps.

    “If we investigate deeply, I may be the least that has benefited from Kalu among us, but that will not make me deny my friendship and loyalty to him.

    “I am a Labour Party member who is loyal to my leader, the Governor, wherever he is, I will be, but for this video, Kalu has done what he needs to do for his party,“ he said.

    He said some of his colleagues had gone and blackmailed him before the governor  that he and Kalu would pair as Governor and Deputy in 2027.

    The lawmaker said that such had never been discussed before, saying, “This is exactly how the PDP forced me out of the party with unfounded lies.”

    He urged lawmakers not to heat up the polity and to treat Kalu’s statement as a mere commitment to his party’s victory in 2027.

  • Reps deny rift between Speaker Abbas, Kalu, says no bribery for cttee placement-Spokesperson

    Reps deny rift between Speaker Abbas, Kalu, says no bribery for cttee placement-Spokesperson

    The Nigerian House of Representatives, has said the dissolution of the Joint Adhoc Committee on Midstream and Downstream Petroleum was done in line with the 1999 constitution of Nigeria and the standing rules of the House.

    This was, even as, the Green chamber debunked the insinuations in some quarters that there was love lost between the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu; and that Members bribed their way to get some juicy Committee placements in the House.

    A statement signed on Wednesday by the Spokesperson of the House, Akin Rotimi Jnr, said the action by the leadership was to ensure efficacy, independence, and effectiveness of the investigation.

    He stressed that, the House has its internal working mechanisms, “which are enabled by Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provides that, ‘Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the Senate or the House of Representatives shall have power to regulate its own procedure, including the procedure for summoning and recess of the House’”.

    The Spokesperson contended that, “the leadership of the House reserves the right to disband/dissolve an ad hoc committee whenever the need arises.

    “That the action taken by the House to dissolve the Ad Hoc Committee on Oil and Gas Investigation did not contravene any rule of the House or any law of the land;

    “That at no time did the House leadership or anybody for that matter received inducement for the appointment of any committee chairman. It was an assignment diligently executed by the Selection Committee of the House between June and July 2023, which has a member from each of the states of the federation;

    “That there is no rift whatsoever between the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker regarding this or any matter; the duo enjoys a robust and cordial relationship. The two Presiding Officers also have mutual respect for each other, and will not allow anything to come between them.

    “The public should therefore disregard the speculations making the round in some sections of the media”.

    The House therefore, implored Journalists to always verify their facts and crosscheck with the appropriate quarters before going to the press, “with information that are nothing but falsehoods dished out as stories”.

    The Green chamber, while reiterating cordial relationship between the two Presiding Officers and peace amongst Members; stressed that it operates open door policy and remains open to the Nigerian public and the media regarding its activities.

  • SEDC Act: Deputy Speaker, Kalu passionately pleads with Igbo to shun agitation, protests

    SEDC Act: Deputy Speaker, Kalu passionately pleads with Igbo to shun agitation, protests

    Barely 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the South East Development Commission, SEDC bill into law, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called on his Igbo kinsmen to ignore agitation.

    At a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the Deputy Speaker also urged the people of the region and Nigerians entirely, to shun the proposed nationwide protest, saying, nothing could be achieved through kinetic approaches to issues of governance.

    “To my fellow south easterners, I implore you not to join the planned looming anti government protest. Instead, let us view the signing of the South East Development Commission bill into law as a testament to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to heal the wounds of the past, bury the rumors of the marginalization of the southeast geopolitical zone and renew the hope of the nation towards equitable economic growth and socio cultural renewal.

    “This is a time for unity. This is a time for progress. This is a time for peace, not division, not unrest. Unrest and division will divide us further and will under-develope us further. But in an atmosphere of peace and unity, the progress promised by our forefathers will be achieved.

    “I also implore Nigerians from all walks of life and the entirety of the country to not heed the calls for protests, but instead continue to trust in the process. Say no to protests. Say yes to the process, which involves policy formulations from government that is people centered, which the parliament have insisted on, that all policies of government must have the people at its center, believe in this process, not the protests, and we will be able to get the profit that this government has promised”, Kalu said.

    The elated Deputy Speaker, called for more patience with Tinubu’s administration, while thanking the President for remembering the south east region, 54 years after the end of the civil war.

    He said, “The reforms of this current administration will take time, no doubt, but it will soon start to suffice, including a reversal of inflation, stabilization of the economy and ensuing multiplier effect in a massive employment boom as a result of industrialization and the outcomes of the work organizations like the SEDC, which is the South East Development Commission, will engineer in the coming days.

    “With South East Development Commission, we will leverage to improve agriculture. Entrepreneurial skills will enable industrialization of the region and our innovative mindedness will leverage the opportunities in the digital economy.

    “Our creativity will birth a greater cultural and entertainment platform, such as the Igbowood. Our youth and women demography will play a major role in the energy of our development. It is time to put our huge gap deposit in the region to use for industrial parks.

    “The gas in our zone will aid these industrial parts that will bring value to the nation. Most of the radicalized youths in our region who have been crying because of the seeming rumors of marginalization and alienation from the center will now have jobs to engage them productively, among others.

    “It is no more time to carry arms. It is now time to take up skills that will be stimulated by the South East Development Commission. This is a foundation for peace and security in the southeast. There is no better foundation than this.

    “On behalf of the great people of the Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria, the beating heart of the nation, the land of enterprise and entrepreneurship, let me express my deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Southeast Development Commission SEDC bill into law yesterday”

    Speaking further, Kalu said, “This victory is a true example that a lot can be achieved quietly through lobbying, negotiation for what is good for your people. With negotiation, diplomacy and lobbying, not conflict and protest, we can achieve a lot more from this government.

    “I wish to thank the Governors of the five states of the southeast and to congratulate them for their support towards this bill. It is momentous because it is happening during their tenure and their states and her citizens will be the beneficiaries of these magnanimous acts of the President who loves the southeast. Let us remember that our strength lies in our shared dreams and collective effort.

    “In conclusion, let us remember that in unity, our shared dreams and visions will become a mission. And same goes for our collective efforts. Together we can build a Nigeria that offers every child a decent shot at life.

    “Where the doors of opportunities remain open to all, we know we can do better. We are aware that we will. And with South East Development Commission, the long cry of our forefathers who died hoping for reconciliation, the true reconciliation, the true reintegration, the true reconstruction, the true rehabilitation will have been achieved.

    “In South East Development Commission, a lot of multiple questions have been answered. Say no now to agitation. Say no now to conflict. Say no now to crisis and protest. Let us support this government”.

    Recall that President Tinubu granted ascent to a Bill for an Act to establish South East Development Commission yesterday.

    The Bill sponsored by Hon. Kalu, sought to establish a commission that will be charged with the responsibility to receive and manage fund from allocation of the federation account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damage suffered by the region as a result of the effect of the civil war after 54 years.

  • CHIMMA JOSEPHINE: Kalu: Calmness, Emotional Intelligence of a Presiding Officer

    CHIMMA JOSEPHINE: Kalu: Calmness, Emotional Intelligence of a Presiding Officer

    By Chimma Josephine.

    “It is reason, which must guide our deliberations, guide our debate, and guide our decision.” – Barbara Jordan

    Ever since his election as a Deputy Speaker and Presiding Officer of the House of Representatives on June 13, 2023, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has displayed calmness and emotional intelligence as well as the temperament required of the role during plenary proceedings.

    Elementarily, the presiding officer in the case of the House of Representatives, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker’s duty is to preside over the daily sessions of the House, preserve order in the chamber, direct proceedings amongst others.

    The role requires the holder; Speaker or Deputy Speaker to be calm, control his or her emotions and be of good temperament to treat members of his House as equals of which he or she is first amongst them.

    Rt. Hon. Kalu, a lawyer and two time member representing, Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State has had encounters while presiding over plenary which tested his calmness and emotional control, but he showed dexterity in all of them.

    The Deputy Speaker is known to be warm hearted, affectionate and a lover of peace. He exude kindness and compassion in such an inspiring way!

    His love for humanity led him to launch the Benjamin Kalu Foundation many years ago for helping the less privileged.

    As a peace advocate, in December 2023, he launched an initiative known as the Peace in South East Project, PISE-P which canvasses the adoption of a non-kinetic approach to resolving the problem of insecurity bedeviling the South East.

    The Deputy Speaker said that his goal for initiating Peace In South East Project was also to foster peace, unity and development in the region and promote reconciliation among communities and individuals affected by past conflicts.

    This laudable initiative has garnered commendations and support from the presidency and Nigerians from every region of the country. Just recently, on July 8, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji (Dr.) Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu during a visit to Deputy Speaker expressed his readiness for a stronger collaboration between the northern and the southern regions with regards to peace and unity of the country.

    Speaking through Hon. Ibrahim Bala, a former member of Bauchi State House of Assembly, the Emir said that they heard about the Peace In South East Project and decided to identify with the initiative.

    As a presiding officer of the House, Kalu always makes sure that every member is carried along and made to feel at home. While presiding he ensures that the session is participatory allowing ranking and new members to debate on issues.

    An instance was seen some weeks back when Hon. Bello El-rufai made a contribution to a motion.

    Encouraging him, the Deputy Speaker said, “Very sound presentation, I’m always proud of the young parliamentarians, when you ventilate issues in this manner, it’s very impressive, It’s very impressive.”

    Also on May 29th, the Deputy Speaker allowed many members both ranking and new, regardless of party affiliation to robustly contribute to the debate on the nation’s 25 years of unbroken democracy.

    Kalu’s competence, capacity, and having good knowledge of legislative processes has never been in doubt. He has efficiently carried out his duties and as well ensured that his colleagues who are first timers are encouraged and well guarded on legislative processes.

    In and out of the chambers, he has proven that love is the highest vibration and hate is the lowest, so we benefit ourselves by loving all unconditionally.

    However to the surprise and shock of many, on July 2nd, a first time lawmaker Hon. Cyril Hart accused Kalu of marginalising first-timers during debates on the floor of the House

    In his response, Kalu stated that all members of the parliament are colleagues and equal irrespective of their political affiliations, economic or social backgrounds.

    He said that being a presiding officer, principal officer or chairman of a committee is a privilege granted by both the leave of the House and the mandate of the members, emphasizing that the position does not presuppose superiority.

    He therefore stated that there is no discrimination of any member whether old or new, ranking or no ranking.

    He further clarified that the row where the member was sitting had earlier been given an opportunity to speak, stressing that other rows also needed to be accommodated.

    He emphasized that the 10th House under the able leadership Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas will continue to be fair, just and open to every member and ensure that all voices are heard.

    Few days later, at the plenary on July 9, Hon. Philip Agbese, a first timer raised a point of order, stating that his privilege were breached by Hon. Hart, as his claim according to him was not true.

    He thereafter demanded an apology from Hart.

    Agbese said, “Mr Speaker sometime last week, I was returning from an international parliamentary assignment back to the country when I was confronted by a parliamentarian from Ghana. At the airport in Accra, I was confronted with a question emanating from the conduct or the position of one of my colleagues that new members of this parliament are not allowed to speak.

    ‘My constituents equally threatened on Facebook and other platforms regretting that they sent a new member to the House. There has never been anytime any new member was not allowed to speak, and not myself. My colleague has injured my reputation, my privilege as a member of this house was breached and I move that the member who made that comment should tender an apology to Me, Chief Philip Agbese and some of my colleagues who feel like they do not belong to that category.”

    But Kalu as a peace advocate and a gentleman, appealed for calm, informing the lawmaker that Hon. Hart has tendered an apology privately to him.

    Kalu said “the issue you raised about the generalized comment made by one of our colleagues, stating that new members were not allowed to speak, it went viral, this is a global community, they can reach you via internet anywhere you are, information travel very fast. You’re right to say to say that you’re a new member and nobody has shortchanged you, or stopped you from speaking. I know also that the leadership of this house have tried severally to carry the new members along in all things.

    “Like I said last week there’s no discrimination in this parliament, we are all colleagues. The hon. Member (Cyril Hart) has tendered an apology to me and I am sure that any member who felt aggrieved he will find time to meet you and apologize to you. It’s a process of learning for new members, we will keep encouraging them and protecting them to feel comfortable whenever they have an issue to raise. Let me maintain, nobody will deny new members their rights in this parliament. Your point of order is hereby sustained.”

    The manner and candour in which Kalu handle such issues when they erupt, depicts emotional intelligence which is the ability to recognise, understand and choose how one thinks, feels, and acts; shaping interactions with others and understanding of oneself.

    Chimma Josephine writes from Rivers

  • Reps considering bill to reserve seats for women in N/Assembly -Kalu

    Reps considering bill to reserve seats for women in N/Assembly -Kalu

    House of Representatives is presently considering a bill to reserve seats for women in the parliament, the deputy speaker of the House, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has said.

    He made the disclosure in Owerri, Imo State on Friday night while delivering his goodwill message at the 2nd Women of Divine Destiny Initiative (WODDI) Inspiring Women Summit (WIWS 2024) with the theme: “Illuminating the Power of an Inspired Woman.”

    WODDI is a non-profit organization founded by Dr. Nkechi Rochas Okorocha, the wife of former Imo State Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha which aims at empowering the women and helping them to achieve their dreams in life.

    Titled “Seat Reservation Bill”, the piece of legislation recently introduced in the parliament is sponsored by Kalu alongside some of his colleagues.

    Essentially, the bill is seeking the alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ultimately provide special seats for women in the legislature.

    The deputy speaker stressed that the bill when passed into law will help the cause of women within the political firmament.

    He said: “We must acknowledge, however, that in a society striving for equitable development, addressing fundamental issues like gender equality and inclusiveness is imperative. In Nigeria, where women and girls constitute 49.32% of our population, the representation in institutions and governance needs urgent attention.

    “Presently, the House of Representatives is considering a bill to improve the representation of women in our legislative institutions sponsored by myself and other colleagues of mine.”

    Kalu added that Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), a social development initiative has also prioritized gender issues in its programmes.

    He commended the WODDI founder and former First Lady for organizing the summit for the women, urging the participants to unleash their full potentials accordingly having been rightly motivated.

    “Here in Nigeria, we have actively pushed for more inclusive legislation that
    empowers women. Our social development project, PISE-P (Peace in
    South East Project), exemplifies this commitment. By also targeting young
    women as beneficiaries, PISE-P employs non-violent methods to foster
    peace and development across southeast Nigeria.

    “This combined approach, honoring the past while actively shaping the
    future for Nigerian women, is the key to achieving lasting progress.

    “I am confident that the women gathered here today will leave WIWS 2024
    inspired and equipped. Equipped with the knowledge, connections, and
    unwavering belief in yourselves, turn that inspiration into action.

    “Remember, the power you hold is immense. You are leaders, innovators,
    changemakers, and the architects of a brighter future.

    “Let the light you have ignited within yourselves continue to shine brightly.
    Go forth and illuminate your communities, workplaces, and the world with your talent, passion, and uncowered spirit”, he said.