Labour Party’s Anyaso Declares for Bende Federal Seat, Challenges Deputy Speaker Kalu

Labour Party’s Anyaso Declares for Bende Federal Seat, Challenges Deputy Speaker Kalu.

Businessman Chimaobi Anyaso has declared his intention to contest the Bende Federal Constituency seat in Abia State in the 2027 general elections on the platform of the Labour Party, setting up a direct challenge to the incumbent, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.

Anyaso formally launched his campaign in Bende, according to a statement from his office obtained on Wednesday.

He said his campaign would prioritise job creation, infrastructure development, youth and women empowerment, agriculture and grassroots representation.

“This campaign is about the future of Bende. It is about our farmers, our young people, our mothers, our entrepreneurs and every community that deserves to feel the impact of representation,” Anyaso said.

He noted that consultations across the constituency had highlighted concerns over unemployment, poor infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and limited economic opportunities. These issues, he said, would form the core of his legislative agenda if elected.

“Our young people should not have to leave their communities because there are no opportunities. We must deliberately create the conditions that allow enterprise, agriculture, innovation and skills to thrive within Bende,” he added.

Anyaso pledged to advocate federal programmes that would support farmers, traders, artisans and small businesses through improved access to finance, skills development and expanded markets. He said his previous interventions in education, youth development, entrepreneurship and welfare would also shape his approach.

The campaign, according to the statement, will feature town hall meetings and consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, women, farmers, traders and professionals across the constituency.

Anyaso called for an issue-based contest, urging political actors to avoid insults and allow voters to judge candidates on their records and plans.

“This must not become a campaign of insults or bitterness. Let every candidate present his record, his ideas and his plans, and let the people of Bende decide the future they want,” he said.

He further promised to support development initiatives in Abia State and attract federal interventions to the constituency through partnerships.

“Politics must ultimately translate into development. Our communities need roads, jobs, better healthcare, support for agriculture, opportunities for young people and a stronger voice,” Anyaso stated.

Kalu is seeking another term in the constituency. Anyaso said his candidacy would offer voters a clear alternative.

“Bende deserves representation that listens, that is accessible, and that delivers. We are ready to offer that alternative, and ultimately, the people will decide,” he said.