By Yemisi Suleiman

It was a roll call of distinguished personalities in the country as the good people of Bende, in the Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, along with members of the Peace In the Southeast Project (PISE-P) organised a Homecoming Grand Reception for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, on December 29, 2023. The occasion also witnessed, the formal unveiling of PISE-P an initiative of the members of the 10th National Assembly from the Southeast, led by the Deputy Speaker.

The grand reception which was held at Bende Sports Ground, was a huge success, representing the community’s pride, solidarity, and gratitude for their hardworking son. It emphasised how crucial it is to honour and celebrate the accomplishments of those who play a pivotal role in how their communities develop.
Top personalities including Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja III, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Abdullahi Umar Gganduje, former Governor of Imo State Senator Rochas Okorocha, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu amongst others, came out to be a part of this history in honour of the Rt Hon. Kalu and in recognition of the need for peace to replace the ongoing blaze in the Southeast.