A member of Abia State House of Assembly representing Bende North Constituency, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu has described as fake and misleading reports on some social media platforms that former Governor of Abia state, Senator Orji Kalu, has cancelled a purported trip to Germany, in view of the recent attack on Senator Ike Ekweramadu by some members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Describing the Chief Whip of the Senate, as a courageous and responsible leader, Chukwu expressed appreciation to the Senator for facilitating the repairs of roads and remediation of erosion sites in various locations in Abia North Senatorial district.
He condemned the faceless people using facebook and other social media platforms to spread falsehood and malign the image of Kalu, stressing that the former governor, has performed credibly thus far in the 9th Senate.
While acknowledging the selflessness and magnimity of Kalu, Chukwu expressed appreciation to the former governor for attending August meetings in various communities in his constituency.
Speaking to a cross-section of journalists on Monday after a meeting with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ugwueke, the state legislator applauded the free trade loan to petty traders and market women by the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, noting that the humanitarian gestures of the former governor are worthy of commendation.
He said, ” after the attack on Senator Ike Ekweramadu by some members of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Germany, I have been reading all sorts of negative comments on facebook and other social media platforms.
“Of particular reference is a viral message that Senator Kalu, has cancelled his trip to Germany for medical check-up because he (Kalu) is afraid of attack by IPOB.
” Kalu had no plan to travel to Germany. Hence, the news is fake and misleading.
” The former Governor, since the national assembly went on recess, had been with his constituents in Abia North Senatorial District, on a thank-you tour of the wards and local government areas.
“He also used the opportunity to give zero interest loan to more artisans, traders, market women and co-operative societies across the five local government areas of Abia North Senatorial District.
“The former governor has over the years maintained his position that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable.
” There is no doubt that Ndigbo have been aggrieved over the years due to neglect by previous governments.
“However, the marginalization of Igbo can only by corrected through dialogue and civil engagement and this what Kalu has been advocating across the globe.
” Nigerians regardless of age, tribe and political affiliation, must respect the law otherwise face the wrath of the law.
The state lawmaker, who commended Kalu for advising the IPOB to shun violence and social vices, stressed that the former governor is known to be a man of peace, adding that the concerns of IPOB and other Igbo groups can only be addressed in an atmosphere of peace.
He said, “Kalu will always speak the truth without minding the consequences.
” He is a genuine leader, who is committed to the development of the South East and Nigeria in general”.
Chukwu, added that the former governor, will in the next few days, round off his activities in his constituency, before departing Igbere for Lagos at the weekend.