Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has again lamented that the sit-at-home’ order by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is impeding the growth and development of the South-east region.
Kalu stated this in Abuja when he received a delegation from Aba Creatives Collective, organisers of Aba Fashion Show, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office at the National Assembly Friday.
The event which aimed at showcasing the creativity of fashion designers and enthusiasts in Abia state, holds every December.
A statement by his special assistant on press affairs, Udora Orizu, said the deputy speaker commended the delegation on the initiative, saying that it perfectly aligns with the objectives of highlighting the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of Abia people, while also noting that the event presents a unique opportunity to harness potentials of the untapped fashion industry to drive economic growth.
Kalu, however said the issue of insecurity in the region has been a great challenge.
He said the sit-at-home agenda of non-state actors has led to loss of manpower, increasing unemployment and exodus of investors from the region, and therefore urged the Igbo to reject the sit-at-home agenda, and say no to the fear sold by “these faceless individuals who don’t mean any good for the indigenes.”
Earlier, the team led by Mr. Chinyere Akataobi told Kalu that they visited to congratulate him on his emergence as deputy speaker and as well solicit for his support at the upcoming event.
