The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has affirmed his commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid, citing the President’s inclusive governance and strategic efforts to integrate the South East region into the national framework.
Speaking when he received a delegation of the City Boy Movement, led by Abia State Coordinator and South East Zonal Leader, Mary Ikoku, Kalu praised President Tinubu’s statesmanship and political inclusivity — especially in regions where he received minimal electoral support in 2023.
Kalu emphasized that Tinubu’s administration has consistently demonstrated fairness in the distribution of key political positions and has initiated policies designed to revamp Nigeria’s economy, not just for the present generation, but for posterity.
He particularly highlighted the recent establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), describing it as a historic and healing gesture that fulfilled a 50-year-old promise made to the region after the civil war.
“The creation of the SEDC is not just another policy — it’s a powerful message of reconciliation and reintegration. President Tinubu has done what many before him did not even attempt. This is why I support his second-term bid. He didn’t get our votes, yet he has given us so much,” Kalu stated.
Accepting his role as the Zonal Grand Patron of the City Boy Movement in the South East, the Deputy Speaker pledged to collaborate with the group through his own initiative, Renewed Hope Partners (RHP), to enhance support for the President across the five Eastern states.
“We are going to work together to ensure that the votes from the South East in 2027 will be different. We’ll drive impact through synergy. This is not just political; it’s personal — a matter of justice, development, and national unity,” he said.
Kalu also urged the Igbo community to take a more active role in national politics, warning against continued political fragmentation.
“When we split our votes, we weaken our voice at the negotiation table. Inclusion starts with participation. We must support this administration fully to reap the benefits,” he added.
In her remarks, Mary Ikoku commended Kalu’s peace-building efforts and legislative achievements. She described the Deputy Speaker as a key ally in promoting Tinubu’s vision and announced his appointment as the official Patron of the South East City Boy Movement.
“We admire your commitment to the President’s ideals and your efforts to bridge gaps in the South East. With your leadership, we’re confident in advancing the President’s re-election mission,” she said.
The partnership between the Renewed Hope Partners and the City Boy Movement is expected to strengthen grassroots mobilization and support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign in the South East.
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