Politics:
Bende's Political History and the Need to Preserve Its National Influence
A review of Bende's political journey suggests that protecting the constituency's current national standing should take precedence over narratives that overlook historical realities.
By:
Aglow TV
The recent arguments centered on equity and the claim that it is "someone else's turn" deserve to be examined through the lens of history rather than sentiment. The people of Bende are well informed and cannot be persuaded by narratives that ignore documented political realities. Any meaningful conversation about power rotation must acknowledge the long-standing pattern of political representation across the constituency instead of presenting a selective version of events.
For many years, Bende North has consistently occupied some of the most influential elective positions in Abia State and beyond. Igbere produced Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, who served as Governor of Abia State for eight years after previously representing Bende Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. He has also represented Abia North in the Senate for two terms and is pursuing another mandate. The same political axis currently has representation in the Abia State House of Assembly and also produced the APC governorship aspirant. In addition, with the support of Bende people, including those residing in Aba, an indigene of Igbere presently represents Aba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Beyond Igbere, Bende North also produced Hon. Mba Aja of Item, who served in the House of Representatives, while Hon. Nnenna Ukeje of Alayi represented Bende Federal Constituency for twelve uninterrupted years before the emergence of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. Throughout these years of sustained representation by one section of the constituency, there were no widespread accusations of domination or demands for political rotation.
Democracy continued without such concerns becoming a major issue.
Today, Bende South has produced Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who, within just two terms in the House of Representatives, has risen to become the Deputy Speaker—the highest legislative office ever attained by a son of Bende. This achievement has elevated the constituency's voice at the national level, creating opportunities, influence, and greater bargaining power that extend beyond political parties or individual communities. The office of the Deputy Speaker is of significant national importance, and preserving such a position is widely viewed as beneficial to the entire constituency.
Against this background, many believe it would be unwise to sacrifice Bende's current political advantage because of individual ambition. Comparing decades of representation from one axis with only a few years from another raises legitimate questions about fairness and consistency. While every citizen has the constitutional right to seek elective office, political aspirations should be guided by the broader interest of the constituency rather than personal considerations.
History remains a matter of public record and cannot be rewritten. The people of Bende understand their political journey, appreciate what has been achieved, and recognize the importance of safeguarding the constituency's hard-earned relevance and influence at the national level.
