Just In: Political Fear Behind the Smear Campaign
The ongoing attacks against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, appear to be driven more by political anxiety than by genuine concern for accountability. The voices behind the criticism resemble the biblical metaphor of Esau—loud and recognizable—but the unseen force directing them is suspected to be a politically motivated figure uncomfortable with Kalu’s rising influence. Using individuals who are not even from the South-East to launch attacks against one of the region’s most prominent lawmakers makes the entire campaign look suspicious and deeply questionable.
What raises further concern is the involvement of a supposedly faceless civil society group that has chosen media drama instead of lawful procedures. Issuing ultimatums to a serving Deputy Speaker is not only inappropriate but also unnecessary when the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria clearly provides institutional mechanisms for investigating allegations against public officials. Such theatrics suggest that the intention may not be justice, but rather public embarrassment and political manipulation.
Another troubling aspect of the accusations is the contradiction within the claims themselves. The group openly states that it is not accusing Kalu of committing any crime, yet it simultaneously attempts to create doubts about his academic qualifications and his record with the National Youth Service Corps. This approach borders on defamation and raises serious questions about the credibility and motives of those orchestrating the accusations. If there were genuine evidence of wrongdoing, the appropriate step would be to present it before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee or the courts instead of spreading insinuations through the media.
Many observers believe the attacks are part of a broader political strategy linked to the approaching 2027 Nigerian general election. The growing momentum of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State under Kalu’s leadership may have unsettled certain interests who fear losing political advantage. By fueling controversy and media trials, opponents may be attempting to weaken the party’s rising strength and its support for the reelection of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, supporters of the Deputy Speaker insist that rather than responding with hostility, they will maintain a higher ground while allowing truth and due process to prevail.
