The South East Progressive Forum has dismissed recent social media campaigns targeting Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, describing them as attempts to distract him from his legislative duties.

In a statement issued on Monday, the forum’s spokesperson, Chief Ihuoma Okoronkwo, urged security agencies to investigate those behind the online narratives questioning aspects of Kalu’s academic records.

The group emphasized that no amount of criticism or pressure would deter the Deputy Speaker from delivering quality representation for Bende Federal Constituency and contributing to national development.

“Hon. Kalu is not only representing Bende Federal Constituency, but as a Presiding Officer of the House of Representatives, he serves all 360 federal constituencies,” Okoronkwo said. “His work has earned him widespread respect across Nigeria.”

The forum highlighted Kalu’s legislative achievements, including sponsoring 127 bills within two years—a record recognized with the Lawmaker of the Year award—and various impactful projects across the South East and Nigeria.

On the specific allegations regarding an overlap between his NYSC discharge certificate and Law School results, the group called for calm, noting that the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee would handle the matter professionally.

“Like medical doctors, lawyers sometimes experience overlap between NYSC and professional certificates,” Okoronkwo explained. “Kalu was cleared by INEC for elections in 2019 and 2023, and enrolled as a lawyer by the Supreme Court. We trust the disciplinary committee to conduct its work impartially.”

The South East Progressive Forum urged Kalu to remain focused on his responsibilities, assuring him of continued support from the region and the nation at large.