Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has urged Abia State government and the South-East region to give credit to President Bola Tinubu, for ensuring that funds were made available for execution of projects in the area.

Speaking during the commissioning of some projects in Aba, Abia State over the weekend, Kalu who represents Bende Federal Constituency of the State commended Governor Alex Otti for his efforts in enhancing the State’s infrastructure.

“As you know, I am not a member of your party. I am a member of APC. But when it comes to development, it is important that citizens remember that we were first citizens of this state before we became political party members.

“And if you love your state, irrespective of the political party of your governor, you must find a way to work with that governor to succeed. It is not my first time of extending this magnanimity. It is in my character to associate with the governors of my state.

“I did it with Governor T.O. Orji. I did it with Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and my brother and friend, Dr. Otti who was my friend before he became governor. There is no reason he will invite me on a special day like this and I will not leave Abuja to be here. Governance is about partnership. The state must partner with the federal government and the federal government must partner with the state.

“As the Deputy Speaker, I represent the people of the south east. Abia is part of south east. And if I have been with Mr. President, visiting Enugu who is not a member of APC and Anambra who is not a member of APC, there’s absolutely no reason I will not identify with my governor in my own state…

“The ones the President has done and the ones he has assisted, please make sure all Abians know that the President is supporting the governor of Abia state. It is important because it is the philosophy of the Igbos that if you thank a helper, he will do more,” Kalu was quoted in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu.