KALU DENIES CSO’S ALLEGATIONS OF IRREGULARITIES IN HIS NYSC, LAW SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

By: Fasasi Hammad
The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, has dismissed as unfounded the claims of irregularities in his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) participation and Law School attendance, which were raised by a coalition of Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG).
In a statement, the Deputy Speaker’s office described the allegations as “unproven claims” and “politically motivated narratives” designed to tarnish his reputation.
“The Office of the Deputy Speaker has taken note of a press conference held by the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), during which allegations were made regarding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC participation and attendance at the Nigerian Law School.
“While such speculative and politically charged claims would not ordinarily warrant a response, we find it necessary to clarify the record to prevent the spread of deliberate misinformation.
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“First and foremost, these allegations remain unsubstantiated and have not been confirmed by any competent authority. The Deputy Speaker is a fully qualified legal practitioner and a respected public servant whose credentials have been verified at multiple stages of his career,” the statement read.
The office further noted that similar claims were previously made during the 2023 political contests but were dismissed through legal proceedings, confirming the authenticity of his qualifications.
Addressing calls for Kalu to step down, the statement added: “Demanding that the Deputy Speaker ‘step aside’ based solely on unverified claims sets a dangerous precedent and could encourage politically motivated petitions as tools of destabilization.
“The Deputy Speaker has full confidence in Nigeria’s institutions and will cooperate with any competent authority seeking clarification or documentation. Allegations should be investigated by the appropriate legal channels, not adjudicated via press conferences or media trials.”
The statement also condemned threats and ultimatums from civil groups as attempts to coerce public institutions or force political outcomes.
“Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu remains fully committed to his duties as Deputy Speaker, focusing on legislative reforms, national development, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. We urge Nigerians to disregard attempts to politicize this matter and allow statutory bodies to properly examine any petitions submitted,” the office concluded.
