Bende Elders Rally Behind Benjamin Kalu, Urge Monarchs to Intervene Amid Clash with Orji Uzor Kalu

Elders from different autonomous communities in Bende Ward have come together to seek the intervention of their traditional ruler, following the growing political tension between their son, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.

Led by Chief Hon. Emmanuel Onwuchekwa, former Chairman of Bende LGA, the delegation paid a respectful visit to Eze Sir Anthony Okorochukwu, the Ohuhu IV of Bende Ancient Kingdom, to formally present their concerns and report the matter, with the hope that all Ezes in Bende Local Government will come together and call Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to order.

Also present was the President General of Bende Autonomous Community, Sir John Kwubiri Kalu, alongside other respected elders and stakeholders who spoke passionately on the need to protect the peace, unity, and dignity of Bende.

Their message was clear:

“Ben is not stopping Senator Orji Uzor Kalu from contesting for Senate. They are contesting for two different positions. Why then should there be this level of hostility?”

The elders stressed that it is wrong to create the impression that Ben’s political rise is solely tied to anyone’s personal benevolence. According to them, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu earned his place through hard work, capacity, and visible excellence.

They also made it clear that never for once has Benjamin Kalu disobeyed, disrespected, or dishonoured Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. They maintained that Ben has always shown respect, loyalty, and regard for OUK, even in difficult political moments.

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They recalled that even when he found his way into the House of Representatives, he distinguished himself through performance and competence, rising to become spokesperson and eventually Deputy Speaker not by favour, but by merit.

They also pointed out that when it was time for his second term, opposition came strongly against him, yet he prevailed because of the people and his proven leadership.

The elders firmly stated:

“If Senator Orji Uzor Kalu truly made Ben as claimed, he would have brought him into power much earlier when he was governor. Ben found his own path and proved himself.”

They further warned that the continued pressure, hostility, and constant attacks against Benjamin Kalu are gradually escalating beyond ordinary politics and could create unnecessary communal tension in Bende.

According to them, the son of Bende Ward has been bullied enough, and allowing this situation to continue unchecked may turn political disagreement into a communal crisis.

They maintained that:

“OUK should leave Benjamin alone. Whatever is being done to Ben is being done to Bende Ward.”

Their appeal is for the traditional institution to step in and restore balance, reminding everyone that political ambition should never destroy brotherhood, divide the people, or create avoidable conflict within the community.

Signed
Bende ward Elders