House Not Frustrating Electoral Act Amendment Efforts — Deputy Speaker Kalu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, has dismissed claims that the House is deliberately stalling efforts to amend the Electoral Act, 2022, insisting that lawmakers have demonstrated strong commitment to completing the process.
Speaking on Friday at his country home in Bende, Abia State, Kalu said the House had expended considerable legislative effort to ensure that the Electoral Act amendment was concluded before the lawmakers proceeded on recess.
“The Electoral Act was among the final matters I presided over as Chairman of the Committee of the Whole before the House adjourned for the holidays,” “We did not close parliament until the Electoral Act was amended.”he said.
Kalu stressed that the House had fulfilled its constitutional responsibility on the matter, noting that any delay in the final passage of the amendment was not attributable to the lower chamber.
His remarks come amid concerns raised by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who warned that perceived loopholes in the Electoral Act and delays by the National Assembly—particularly the Senate—could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
Responding to the concerns, Kalu maintained that the House had completed its legislative input and expressed confidence that the Senate would conclude its part when it reconvenes in 2026.
“There may still be minor adjustments,” “When we meet for concurrence, we will address any outstanding gaps and produce a harmonised and final document in the best interest of our democracy.”he explained.
On state politics, the Deputy Speaker also clarified his recent call for Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that the appeal was driven by strategic, not personal, considerations.
According to Kalu, aligning Abia State with the ruling party at the federal level would strengthen the state’s voice in national affairs and prevent it from being marginalised, particularly on issues affecting the South.
He added that Governor Otti’s political influence had already contributed to strengthening the APC in the state, and his formal membership would further enhance Abia’s access to federal opportunities.
“I felt Abia risked being left out, and his joining the APC would open more doors for the state,” “Many people do not know that he was my friend before politics, and he will remain my friend after politics.”Kalu said.
Kalu disclosed that he had personally engaged Governor Otti on the matter, noting that he has spoken with him and prayed with him, but cannot extend the invitation indefinitely.