By Our Correspondent
Elders from Bende Local Government Area in Abia State have called for urgent intervention from the region’s traditional monarchs to mediate the growing rift between two of the area’s most prominent political figures—Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the former governor of Abia State, and Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The long-standing political rivalry between the two has recently escalated into a highly personal dispute, with local leaders expressing concern about the potential ramifications for their community. The two politicians, both of whom are influential sons of Bende, have built their careers in different political arenas but share a history marked by competition and disagreement. Their latest quarrel, which appears to be deepening, has sparked fears of further division within Bende and beyond.
In an open statement, the Bende elders emphasized that the situation could quickly spiral out of control unless a respected and neutral party steps in. They have specifically called on the traditional rulers of Bende to use their cultural influence and authority to bring the two leaders to the negotiating table. The elders believe that the wisdom of the monarchs could offer the best chance at a peaceful resolution, thereby avoiding further political fallout that could affect the entire region.
“We are worried that if this issue continues unchecked, it could tear our community apart,” said one of the prominent elders, who requested anonymity. “Both Senator Kalu and Hon. Kalu are sons of Bende, and their conflict is becoming a source of division. We need the intervention of our traditional rulers—people who have the respect of all parties involved.”
The call for royal intervention comes at a time when Abia politics is already charged with tension, especially within Bende, which is seen as a battleground for political power in the state. The region has witnessed various political shifts in recent years, and local elders are particularly concerned that the rift between these two influential figures could undermine efforts to unite the community and move it forward.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a former governor and a powerful force in Nigerian politics, and Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who has made waves as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, have been at odds on various fronts, including issues of governance, development, and influence. The fact that they are both from the same constituency has made their dispute even more polarizing for Bende’s residents.
While neither Senator Kalu nor Hon. Kalu have issued public statements in response to the elders’ call for intervention, political observers are closely watching how the matter will unfold. The influence of the traditional monarchy in Bende is still significant, and many hope that their intervention could defuse a potentially damaging situation.
“We all want peace, and we cannot allow this rivalry to escalate further,” one of the elders added. “The traditional rulers are the custodians of our culture, and they have the wisdom to resolve this. We trust they will bring both sides to the table.”
The next few days will be critical for Bende as the community waits to see whether their traditional rulers will step in and help heal the rift that has gripped their local leaders. For now, there is cautious hope that unity and respect for the community’s history will prevail.
