Ginger Onwusibe, the representative for Isiala Ngwa South/North in Abia State, has come out in defense of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu’s recent suggestion that Governor Alex Otti should consider joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). Onwusibe’s support follows criticism from Aguocha of the Labour Party, who accused Kalu of being disrespectful towards Otti and the state of Abia.
Aguocha had argued that Kalu’s public remarks about Otti were condescending and disrespectful. He suggested that Kalu’s comments were intended to undermine Otti and diminish his reputation. However, Onwusibe, who is the leader of the Labour Party caucus in the House of Representatives, responded to these claims, asserting that Kalu had done nothing inappropriate. Onwusibe explained that Kalu was simply promoting his party and suggesting that Otti might want to consider joining the APC.
Onwusibe emphasized that Kalu’s comments should be understood in the context of party politics. According to Onwusibe, Kalu was merely marketing his party and inviting Otti to join them. He pointed out that in the video where Kalu made his remarks, Kalu praised Otti, noting their good personal relationship and Otti’s performance as governor.
Onwusibe argued that Kalu’s words were supportive rather than derogatory and that Aguocha’s criticism was misplaced.
Onwusibe shared his personal experience, stating that he has known Kalu since 2021 and worked with him during his campaign for the position of Deputy Speaker. He described Kalu as a leader he holds in high regard and mentioned that he personally benefited less from Kalu compared to others. Despite this, Onwusibe affirmed his loyalty to Kalu and his support for his actions, including his recent comments about Otti.
Furthermore, Onwusibe criticized certain colleagues who had spread rumors about a potential political alliance between Kalu and Otti for the 2027 elections. He refuted these claims, describing them as unfounded and similar to the false accusations that led to his departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Onwusibe urged lawmakers and political figures to avoid inflaming tensions and to interpret Kalu’s comments as part of his commitment to his party’s goals. He emphasized that Kalu’s remarks should be seen as an effort to advance the APC’s position for future elections rather than a personal attack on Governor Otti.
