Gloria Essien, Abuja
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called on the Abia State Government and the South-East region to acknowledge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring funds were made available to execute projects in the region.
Mr. Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, made the call in Aba, Abia State, during the commissioning of projects, where he also commended Governor Alex Otti for his efforts in developing the state’s infrastructure.
“As you know, I am not a member of your party. I am a member of APC. But when it comes to development, it is important that citizens remember that we were first citizens of this state before we became political party members.
“And if you love your state, irrespective of the political party of your governor, you must find a way to work with that governor to succeed,” the Deputy Speaker said.
Mr. Kalu stressed the need for partnership between the state and federal government, and that due recognition be given to President Tinubu for making resources available to states through the removal of oil subsidy.
“It is my challenge to the commissioner for information and all the media houses in Abia State, please give credit to whom credit is due.
“The ones the President has done and the ones he has assisted, please make sure all Abians know that the President is supporting the governor of Abia State. It is important because it is the philosophy of the Igbos that if you thank a helper, he will do more,” he stated.
The Deputy Speaker also appealed to President Tinubu, represented at the event by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, to consider establishing a seaport in the South-East to enhance trade and economic activities.
“Mr. President, Sir, we want to thank you as Abians for what you are doing in our state through our governor and what you’re doing around the South East. Mr President, we need another port in the South East. Southeast are traders. We need a port so that our trading will be enhanced,” he said.
On the demolition of properties belonging to Igbo residents in Lagos, Mr. Kalu urged President Tinubu to intervene by appealing to the Lagos State Government to allow affected persons to regularise their documents instead of facing displacement.
“It bleeds our heart that within this hard time that houses are being destroyed but I know that Mr President who cares for the Igbos, who made the Igbos one of the first commissioners of finance in his administration, will listen to the hearing of the Igbos,” he said.
PIAK