South‑East Youth Coalition Retracts Claim Against Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu

A faction of the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders has publicly withdrawn a contentious petition linked to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and expressed regret for any harm the matter caused his reputation.

The group stated that the statement and petition that sparked the controversy were issued without the approval of its executive leadership and did not reflect its official stance. As a result, the organisation moved to suspend its factional president, Goodluck Ibem, for authorising the communication without authorisation and for misrepresenting the group’s position.

At a press briefing, the coalition reiterated its commitment to constructive political engagement, described Kalu as a respected public servant, and offered an unreserved apology to him, his family, constituents, and office for any embarrassment or distress caused by the earlier statement.

The organisation also emphasized that any future statements issued by Ibem claiming to represent it would be considered invalid, stressing that the group’s name should not be used for personal or divisive political agendas.