Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has absolved President Bola Tinubu of blame for Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Speaking during a charity event to celebrate his 53rd birthday at his country home in Bende, Abia State, Kalu hosted orphans, widows, people living with disabilities, and the elderly.
Kalu attributed Nigeria’s economic hardships to the mismanagement of previous administrations, stating that President Tinubu is working diligently to address these challenges.
“The hardship we are facing was not caused by this man. It’s a result of errors from previous administrations, which President Tinubu is working hard to rectify,” Kalu said.
He urged Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu, noting that his policies are beginning to yield results.
“We cannot continue to live in denial. President Tinubu wants to clean up the system so that we can have sustainable livelihoods. Let’s continue to support and encourage him,” Kalu added.
Kalu predicted a brighter future for Nigeria and urged Nigerians not to lose hope but to trust in the current leadership of the country.
Explaining his decision to celebrate his birthday with the less privileged, Kalu emphasized the importance of caring for humanity.
“I could have celebrated with the rich in Abuja, but what purpose would that serve when we still have the poor, widows, blind, and orphans among us?” he asked.
He further stated, “So, I decided to give them hope. They are here, and we are all going to eat from the same pot today. Afterwards, I will give them something to take home.”
Kalu criticized the hoarding of resources while many people live in poverty, stressing the need for compassion and unity.
“What is the essence of keeping things in warehouses when there is hunger in the land? I’m interested in humanity, not political parties or faith. Let’s spread love, peace, and unity,” he emphasized.
Regarding the defection of politicians from other parties to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kalu attributed the trend to President Tinubu’s favorable disposition towards the South East.
“The product we are selling in President Tinubu’s administration is the reason for the defections. Tinubu has good plans for the South East region, and people are beginning to see that,” he said.
He added, “President Tinubu helped in my emergence as Deputy Speaker by ensuring equity and fairness. He has endeared himself to Abians, and they see hope in him.”
The event, attended by political heavyweights from various parties, featured the sharing of food with the less privileged, a presentation of portraits to the Deputy Speaker by orphanage inmates, and the distribution of raw food items and other palliatives to guests.
