Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has said President Bola Tinubu is the only Nigerian leader to remember the Igbo ethnic group since the civil war.

Kalu made this known while speaking during an empowerment programme organised by Chris Nkwonta, a lawmaker representing the Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency.

The event, held at Ndoki, Ukwa East Local Government Area of the state on Saturday, December 28, 2024, saw over 3,000 members of various political parties crossing to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kalu described the defection as a reflection of the people's gratitude to Tinubu, who he said is committed to the development of Ndigbo as exemplified by the creation of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

The lawmaker reiterated his belief that the commission will meet the region’s infrastructure needs.

“The president has tried for Ndigbo. He is still trying for Ndigbo. He is the only man that remembered Ndigbo after 54 years that a promise of reconstruction, reconciliation and rehabilitation was made to Ndigbo,” said the Deputy Speaker.

Tinubu fulfilling post-civil war promises to Ndigbo

Recall that former Military ruler, Yakubu Gowon, launched the three Rs programme- reconstruction, rehabilitation and reintegration- aimed at healing and rebuilding the country after the civil war which lasted from July 6, 1967, to January 13, 1970.

Meanwhile, Kalu said the reconstruction, rehabilitation and reintegration of the South-East had just started with the establishment of the SEDC.

“He came with the spirit of equity and fairness. He is a leader who believes in development. He signed the SEDC bill into law so that the damage caused by the civil war would be rebuilt.

“As the leader of our party, he has asked us to galvanise the grassroots and bring them closer to the politics of development that he is bringing to Igbo land.

“For taking this decision to join APC, it shall be well with you. APC has come closer to the people. On behalf of our party, we welcome you. We know who you are and what you are capable of doing.

“When this calibre of people left PDP and other parties and joined the APC, what again is left? The parties have collapsed. Everybody is here. We will empower you to empower others,” the deputy speaker added.