The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, Dr Benjamin Kalu, has stated that the South-East region is backing President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid. He made this announcement in Enugu at the flag-off of the APC Women's Mobilisation Campaign and South-East Women Empowerment Programme. The event was organised by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady. Kalu expressed confidence that the region would support Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima in the 2027 election.
According to Kalu, President Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to the South-East region through various appointments of people of Igbo extraction during his tenure as Lagos State Governor. Additionally, the establishment of the South-East Development Commission is seen as a significant move towards addressing the region's developmental challenges. Kalu highlighted these achievements as evidence of Tinubu's goodwill towards the Igbo people.
The Deputy Speaker also recalled the promise of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reintegration made to the Igbo people after the Civil War, which had remained largely unfulfilled by successive administrations. He stated that the signing of the South-East Development Commission Bill into law by President Tinubu was a clear indication of his administration's commitment to the region's development.
Kalu listed several interventions that demonstrated the President's support for the region, including road construction, bridge projects, scholarships, loans, and women's empowerment initiatives. He urged residents of the South-East to vote for Tinubu and Shettima in the January 16, 2027 election, emphasizing that the region had no alternative candidate.
As the Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council 11 (South), Kalu stated that the South-East would not accept a four-year presidential arrangement when it eventually produced a President. Instead, the region deserved eight years like other zones. However, he maintained that the immediate priority of the region should be to support President Tinubu.
Kalu's comments have sparked reactions across the region, with many residents expressing support for Tinubu's re-election bid. The President's efforts to address the region's developmental challenges have been acknowledged, and many believe that he is the best candidate to lead the country forward.
The South-East region plays a crucial role in Nigeria's politics, and Kalu's endorsement of Tinubu's re-election bid is expected to have a significant impact on the 2027 election. With the region's support, Tinubu's chances of winning a second term appear to have increased.
Key points
- The South-East region of Nigeria has pledged its support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid.
- Deputy Speaker Dr Benjamin Kalu cited Tinubu's commitment to the region as the reason for the endorsement.
- The region's support is expected to have a significant impact on the 2027 election.
