By Our Correspondent
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has denied alleged irregularities in his Law School and National Youth Service Corps, NYSC certificates insisting that they are valid.
In a statement in Abuja yesterday, Kalu insisted that he has never forged any credentials or falsified any official record recalling that similar accusations were raised during previous political contests in 2023 and were dismissed in legal proceedings where he categorically affirmed the authenticity of his credentials.
“It is therefore troubling that some groups have chosen to recycle unverified allegations at a time when the Deputy Speaker is deeply engaged in national legislative responsibilities.
“The Deputy Speaker has absolute confidence in the integrity of Nigerian institutions. Should any competent authority request clarification or documentation, he will fully cooperate as a law-abiding citizen.
“Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law. Allegations must be investigated by appropriate authorities rather than adjudicated through press conferences and media trials.
“The Office rejects the attempt by certain groups to issue ultimatums and threats of protests as a means of coercing public institutions or forcing political outcomes.
Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu remains fully committed to his responsibilities as Deputy Speaker of the Nigerian Parliament, focusing on legislative reforms, national development, and strengthening democratic institutions.
“It must also be stressed that calls for the Deputy Speaker to “step aside” based solely on unverified claims set a dangerous precedent, one that could encourage politically motivated petitions against public officials as a tool of destabilisation.
“Public office holders must remain accountable, but accountability must operate within the framework of law, evidence, and due process: not media sensationalism.
“The Deputy Speaker therefore urges members of the public to disregard attempts to politicize the issue and to allow relevant statutory bodies, if they deem it necessary, to examine any petition placed before them to do their job. Nigeria’s democracy is strengthened not by speculation or character assassination, but by adherence to truth, fairness, and institutional processes.
“Hon. Benjamin Okezie Okezie Kalu will continue to discharge his duties with integrity, transparency, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian people”, the statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu read in part.
