Ben Kalu Crossed The Line With Allegation Against Otti – Group

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has been criticized over his allegation that the administration of Governor Alex Otti diverted Abia State funds through Signature Bank.

In a statement by Emenike Okorie, the Director of Strategic Communication for Chima Anyaso Campaign Council, Kalu was said to have crossed a dangerous political line with the allegation which he described as unsubstantiated.

“Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu crossed a dangerous political line when, in his quest to unseat the governor, he accused the administration of Governor Alex Otti of diverting Abia State funds through Signature Bank – an allegation that, unless backed by verifiable evidence, remains a serious claim without substantiation,” Okorie said.

He noted that while political opposition and accountability are legitimate, responsible politics demands evidence, restraint and respect for institutions.

“When political ambition begins to overshadow these principles, public discourse degenerates into what our people aptly call iko onu,” he stated.

Okorie said Kalu underestimated the political sophistication of Governor Otti, describing the governor as a politician who does not need to make noise to make his moves.

According to him, Governor Otti has demonstrated strategic patience, political calculation and an understanding of the system that speaks louder than rhetoric.

He argued that the 2027 election will provide the verdict on the political contest in the state.

“No amount of sharing branded campaign vehicles, emergency interventions or last-minute political gestures can substitute for sustained credibility, effective representation and a constructive relationship with the state government,” he said.

Okorie further said Bende Federal Constituency does not need a federal legislator whose politics is defined by arrogance and unnecessary confrontation with a performing state government.

He said Ndi Bende need representation capable of building bridges, attracting opportunities and working collaboratively with Governor Otti to deliver dividends of democracy.

He said that is why the emergence of Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso (Ofuji) represents a fresh political alternative anchored on humility, accessibility, empathy, development and collaborative leadership.

“January 16, 2027, will not merely be another election date. It will be a referendum on the kind of representation Ndi Bende want for the future,” Okorie added.