Abia PDP Divided: Woman Leader Slams Publicity Secretary Over Chief Emeka Kalu Controversy

[caption id="attachment_185069" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Abia PDP Divided: Woman Leader Slams Publicity Secretary Over Chief Emeka Kalu Controversy[/caption]

In a developing controversy within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State, Mrs. Ozochi Lynda, the Woman Leader of PDP in Bende Local Government Area, has refuted allegations made by the party's State Publicity Secretary, Chief Eric Ikwuagwu, regarding Chief Emeka Kalu's membership status.

In a statement titled "In Defense of Chief Emeka Kalu,ÔÇØ Mrs. Lynda asserted that Chief Kalu is not only a card-carrying member of PDP in Bende Ward but also a committed and valuable stakeholder in the party.

"Chief Eric Dwyse Ikwuagwu recently made a public statement disclaiming Chief Emeka Kalu's claims of being a chieftain of the party. However, I strongly disagree with this assertion. Chief Kalu is indeed a registered and dedicated member of the PDP in Bende Ward,ÔÇØ she said.

Mrs. Lynda highlighted Chief Kalu's significant contributions to the party, particularly his financial support for ward meetings and activities.

"For instance, he generously provided funds for our ward meetings on multiple occasions last year and even hosted stakeholders of Bende Ward, including Ambassador Loving Okoro, an aspirant in the just-concluded state congress of PDP, on January 2, 2025. During the Christmas celebration for PDP ward women leaders on December 23, 2024, Chief Kalu was the highest donor, showcasing his dedication to the party's causes,ÔÇØ she added.

The Woman Leader questioned the motives behind the Publicity Secretary's statement, describing it as baseless and divisive.

"It is puzzling that anybody would make such a false claim, especially given Chief Emeka Kalu's visible involvement in party activities. As the state Publicity Secretary, Eric should focus on constructive engagement rather than personal attacks on dedicated members like Chief Kalu,ÔÇØ she noted.

Mrs. Lynda called on the party leadership to correct the misrepresentation and acknowledge Chief Kalu's invaluable contributions to PDP.

"The party should ensure that such unsubstantiated claims are avoided in the future, as they tarnish the image of loyal members who have consistently supported the PDP's growth and activities,ÔÇØ she concluded.

This defense adds another layer to the growing internal disputes within the PDP, as party members and stakeholders await further clarification from the leadership.