The Parliamentary Advocacy Network (PAN), a prominent parliamentary group in Nigeria, has praised the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) for its recent verdict dismissing a petition against Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.

The LPDC ruled on Wednesday that no prima facie case was established in the petition filed by Barr. John Aikpokpo Martins, which alleged that Kalu had served in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and attended the Nigeria Law School concurrently. The committee determined that the matter lacked substance and did not require further action or invitation of the Deputy Speaker.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its National Coordinator, Amb. Anderson Osiebe, PAN commended the LPDC for handling the petition professionally and patriotically.

“The Panel deserves commendations for handling the matter with a sense of professionalism and patriotism. The members of the Panel have shown conduct worthy of acknowledgment by all Nigerians,” the statement read.

PAN highlighted Kalu’s contributions as a lawmaker, describing him as a dedicated public servant who has made significant impacts both nationally and internationally. The group noted that Kalu, as the highest-ranking political office holder from the South East region, represents a source of pride for the area.

“Those of us who are not from the South East are always envious of the people of the Zone each time we see His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Ph.D, LL.D, CFR, in the Chamber presiding or at any official forum outside Nigeria. He is a worthy ambassador for the region,” Osiebe added.

The group congratulated Kalu on the favorable outcome and urged him to continue his work undistracted. PAN also called for unity and support for public office holders committed to national development.

In the spirit of the ongoing Lenten and Ramadan seasons, PAN encouraged Kalu to forgive any detractors and focus on his legislative duties. The group emphasized that Kalu enjoys widespread goodwill among lawmakers, the parliamentary community, and Nigerians at home and abroad.

PAN reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for effective parliamentary practices and supporting leaders who contribute positively to Nigeria’s democracy.