Bende 2027: Charisma Obioha Urges Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, to Consider Higher Political Ambitions, Back Dr. Chima Anyaso for Reps Seat

A good governance advocate and media person from Bende Federal Constituency, Charisma Obioha, has called on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to consider focusing on greater national opportunities rather than seeking another term in the House of Representatives.

In an open letter addressed to the Deputy Speaker, Obioha praised Kalu’s political journey, describing his rise to one of the highest legislative offices in Nigeria as an inspiration to many young people across Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, and the South-East region.

According to him, Kalu’s emergence as Deputy Speaker was a product of resilience, political experience, and strategic leadership, which have earned him national recognition and influence.

Obioha, however, argued that leadership requires not only the ability to rise politically but also the wisdom to identify the right time to consolidate achievements and pursue new opportunities.

Reflecting on Kalu’s previous attempt to secure the APC governorship ticket in Abia State, he noted that political realities often demonstrate that timing and circumstances play crucial roles in determining success, regardless of a politician’s influence or stature.

He maintained that Kalu currently occupies one of the most strategic political positions in the country and remains among the most influential political figures from the South-East, with considerable national visibility and access to the highest levels of government.

The letter suggested that remaining focused on the broader national stage may be more beneficial than becoming involved in what is expected to be a highly competitive contest for the Bende Federal Constituency seat.

Obioha further pointed to what he described as growing grassroots support for businessman and philanthropist Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, popularly known as Ofuji Ndi Igbo.

He stated that Anyaso has, over the years, built strong relationships across communities through philanthropy, youth empowerment programmes, educational assistance, business support initiatives, and various humanitarian interventions.

According to him, many residents believe that the time has come for Anyaso to represent the constituency in the Green Chamber, a sentiment he summarized with the phrase, “It is Ofuji O’Clock.”

Obioha emphasized that his position was not intended to diminish Kalu’s achievements or contributions to the constituency but rather to acknowledge what he described as the emergence of a new generation of political leadership.

Looking beyond the 2027 elections, he argued that greater opportunities may await Kalu on the national political stage. He noted that if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu secures a second term, increasing calls for broader South-East representation in key national offices could potentially open the door for positions such as the Senate Presidency to rotate to the region.

He contended that such possibilities should form part of Kalu’s long-term political calculations, stressing that experienced statesmen often focus on future chapters of political history rather than immediate electoral contests.

The letter also acknowledged Kalu’s contributions to the development of Bende Federal Constituency and his role in elevating the political profile of the South-East at the national level.

While expressing confidence in the Labour Party’s chances in the constituency, Obioha maintained that the message was intended as a gesture of brotherhood and goodwill rather than a political appeal.

He concluded by urging the Deputy Speaker to continue serving the nation with wisdom and foresight while considering what he described as a changing political landscape within Bende Federal Constituency ahead of the next electoral cycle.