OUK–Ben Kalu Face-Off: Bende Elders Intervene, Insist OUK Did not Bring Ben Into Politics, Invite Traditional Rulers into Dispute

The elders, led by former Chairman of Bende Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Onwucheka, expressed concern over the escalating face-off between the two political figures, which has generated widespread debate, particularly on social media.

Addressing the traditional ruler of Bende Ancient Kingdom, Eze Anthony Okorochukwu, in his palace, Onwucheka refuted claims that Senator Kalu played a decisive role in bringing the Deputy Speaker into politics. He explained that Benjamin Kalu began his political journey independently while in South Africa under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) diaspora platform, contesting elections unsuccessfully before eventually rising through persistence.

He noted that although Senator Kalu later appointed Benjamin Kalu as Chairman of the Transmission Committee in Bende, during his tenure as the Governor of the State, but added that the appointment was short-lived, lasting only a few weeks, raising questions about the extent of mentorship claimed.

According to Onwucheka, the Deputy Speaker eventually secured election into the House of Representatives on his own merit, where he distinguished himself, rising to become spokesperson and later Deputy Speaker.

The elders further alleged that tensions resurfaced ahead of Benjamin Kalu’s bid for a second term in the House, claiming that Senator Kalu opposed his re-election. They, however, maintained that both leaders are pursuing different political ambitions and should not be in conflict.

“Our position is clear, Senator Kalu did not bring Benjamin Kalu into politics. Both men are contesting different positions, and there should be no reason for hostility”, Onwucheka said.

The elders warned that continued attacks on the Deputy Speaker were indirectly affecting the reputation of Bende Ward, urging Senator Kalu to desist from actions that could deepen divisions.

They appealed to traditional rulers to intervene, emphasizing the need to preserve unity among sons of Bende.

 The group, however, requested that Eze Okorochukwu lead efforts to engage other monarchs, including those from Senator Kalu’s community, to broker peace.

“It is not proper for two prominent sons of Bende to be publicly at odds without the intervention of our traditional institutions”, the elders stated.

Responding, Eze Okorochukwu commended the elders for choosing a peaceful approach and assured them that steps would be taken to engage relevant stakeholders. He noted that traditional rulers would explore mediation options and determine further action if peace efforts fail.

Also speaking, the President-General of Bende Autonomous Community, Sir John Kwubiri Kalu, emphasized the importance of peace but warned that continued escalation could provoke stronger reactions.

He, however, praised the developmental strides of the Deputy Speaker, stating that Bende has witnessed significant progress under his representation and reaffirmed the community’s support for him come 2027.