From Emmanuel Uzor, Awka, David Onwuchekwa, Nnewi, and Okwe Obi, Abuja
The South East Governors’ Forum (SEGOF), the Senator representing Anambra South, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youths, and the Nigerian Youth Network (NYN), have lauded President Bola Tinubu for signing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill into law.
The Commission is charged with the responsibility to receive and manage funds from allocation of the federation account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damage suffered by the region as a result of the effect of the civil war after 54 years.
The commission will as well tackle the ecological problems and any other related environmental or developmental challenges in the South East states, which include Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi.
In separate statements, they described the establishment of the SEDC as a milestone and momentous decision.
Director General of the South East Governors’ Forum (SEGOF), Senator Uche Ekwunife, in a statement thanked President Tinubu, noting that “this landmark legislative action heralds a new dawn for the South East region, embodying a commitment to fostering equitable development and alleviating the socio-economic challenges faced by our region.
“The signing of the South East Development Commission Bill into law is not merely a procedural formality; it represents hope and opportunity for our region. We believe that this Commission will serve as a catalyst for transformative development, enabling us to harness the vast potential of our natural and human resources for the collective upliftment of our people.
“The SEDC is poised to address critical issues that have long hindered the progress of our region. It will facilitate investments in vital infrastructure, enhance educational opportunities, improve healthcare delivery, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the commission will work to create job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and empower local businesses, thereby fostering an environment conducive to prosperity. In unison, we have forged a path towards a brighter future for our region. This Commission is not just an administrative body; it is a symbol of our shared aspiration for progress, unity, and sustained development. Together, we shall work diligently to ensure that the auspicious vision of the SEDC is realised for the benefit of all our citizens,” she said.
Senator Ekwunife thanked the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for championing the course and pursuing it to fruition.
In his reaction, Senator Ubah lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the region’s development challenges to foster unity. He noted that the passage of the Bill marked the culmination of the South East’s tireless efforts to establish a development commission that would address the region’s critical needs.
Senator Ubah noted that the Bill signed into law had reversed what he described as the disappointment caused by former President Mohammed Buhari’s denial of assent.
He said that the denial by the former President had reinforced feelings of injustice and hindered the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s progress in the region.
He also commended President Tinubu for paving the way for meaningful collaboration between the South East and the Federal Government, ensuring the region’s growth and prosperity.
Similarly, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing, in a statement by the acting National Youth Leader, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, said the move has finally ended the age long civil war in the South East.
He recalled that the war, which ended on the treaty of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction resurfaced through Biafra agitation following the Federal Government’s abandonment of the treaty. He expressed confidence that the Commission would not only heal the region, but further add value to collective efforts to resolve peace and stability in Nigeria and South East in particular.
“I particularly thank the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, and his colleagues, South East Governors, and others.
“By granting accent to this Commission, Tinubu has finally ended the age long civil war in South East. Recall the war was ended by the treaty of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, but the Federal Government didn’t implement that treaty.
“This is one of the basic factors for the reappearance of Biafran agitation, which is devastating not just the economy of the zone, but its peace and security.
“We’re hopeful that the 3R treaty, through the Commission shall be attended to, to demonstrate reconciliation, enhance rehabilitation and effect reconstruction.
“We’re hopeful this Commission shall go a long way to add value to our collective efforts to resolve peace and stability in Nigeria and the South East in particular.”
Also reacting, the NYN, in a statement by its national president, Francis Arinze, praised President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and commitment to the development of the South-East region.
According to the group, the assent to this bill demonstrates his administration’s dedication to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits and promoting economic growth.
He hailed Kalu, the main sponsor of the bill, for his tireless efforts in championing the cause of the South-East.
It noted that his leadership and advocacy have been instrumental in bringing this legislation to fruition.
“The SEDC bill is a landmark achievement that will have far-reaching benefits for the South-East region. It will facilitate the reconstruction and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, promote economic development, and enhance the quality of life for the people of the region.”
The group, therefore, urged all stakeholders, particularly the youths of the South-East, to rally round President Tinubu and support his administration’s efforts to develop the region.