Abia State, Nigeria, A member of the Abia State House of Assembly representing Bende South State Constituency, Hon. Emmanuel Chinedu Ndubuisi, has dissociated himself from a recent press conference addressed by the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly and members of his Labour Party caucus, which has been widely reported by some media outlets under the misleading headline: “Abia Lawmakers Fault Deputy Speaker Kalu Over Comments on Governor Alex Otti.”
In a press statement personally signed by him, Hon. Ndubuisi made it clear that he was never consulted and did not give his consent to be associated with that position, describing it as misleading and politically motivated.
“It is important to make it categorically clear that I, Hon. Emmanuel Chinedu Ndubuisi, representing the good people of Bende South State Constituency, am not a party to that statement. Neither was I consulted nor did I give my consent to be included in such a politically driven narrative,” he said.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his unflinching support for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, insisting that the Deputy Speaker’s remarks were not offensive but rather a call for improved service delivery and accountable governance in Abia State.
“His comments were neither offensive nor out of place. He only urged the Abia government to do more in fulfilling its promises to the people. Calling for improved governance is not an attack, it is an act of constructive engagement and democratic responsibility,” he emphasized.
Hon. Ndubuisi cautioned against attempts to use partisan lines to silence dissenting voices or intimidate opposition members, stressing that democracy thrives on checks, balance, and open dialogue.
“As lawmakers, we owe our allegiance to the people, not to any political ego. Opposition is not enmity; it is a necessary pillar of democracy. Any attempt to suppress critical voices or stifle alternative opinions in Abia State is a direct assault on democracy and accountability,” he stated.
He further noted that the intolerance to constructive criticism is becoming worrisome, warning that governance cannot flourish where criticism is seen as hostility.
“Governance thrives on dialogue, not dictatorship. One begins to wonder why the Abia government appears uncomfortable with constructive criticism,” he said.
Reaffirming his loyalty to his constituents, Hon. Ndubuisi vowed to continue speaking truth to power and defending the interest of his people without fear or favor.
“I stand firmly with the Deputy Speaker’s position and urge that criticism be viewed as an opportunity to serve better, not as an act of opposition. Our duty as lawmakers is to speak for our people, and that I will continue to do with courage and conviction,” he concluded.
Signed:
Hon. Emmanuel Chinedu Ndubuisi
Member, Representing Bende South State Constituency
Abia State House of Assembly.
