The recent NYSC and legal qualification allegations against Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu have been described by his supporters as a politically motivated witch hunt allegedly sponsored by Abia State government to silence the indefatigable leader.

An Abia APC chieftain, Chief Chidiebere Okoh, condemned the attacks, noting that opposition forces threatened by Kalu’s rising influence are behind the smear campaign.

Kalu’s office, through Chief Press Secretary Levinus Nwabughiogu, clarified that the claims are based on an unverified petition and have no foundation. The Deputy Speaker remains a fully qualified legal practitioner, called to the Nigerian Bar in 2011, and his credentials have never been questioned by any competent authority.

“The existence of a petition does not amount to guilt,” the statement emphasized, warning against attempts to convict public figures in the court of public opinion. The controversy mirrors similar baseless claims during the 2023 political contests, all dismissed by legal processes.

Kalu’s team reiterated his commitment to transparency and the rule of law, noting that he is ready to cooperate with any authority for clarification. Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker continues to focus on legislative duties, national development, and strengthening democratic institutions.

As Chief Okoh put it, these attacks reveal more about the fear of political opponents than about Kalu himself—proving that integrity and competence remain his strongest defense.