SEDC appeals to Uzodinma: Make South East peace, stability priority

A group of civil society organizations, representing the Network for South East Development (NET-Southeast), have called on Senator Hope Uzodinma, the governor of Imo State, to put the peace and stability of the South East ahead of his own interests.

Concerns over the recent appointments to the board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) were voiced by NET-Southeast during a meeting in Enugu to review their year’s activities.

The group issued a warning, stating that the tension created could worsen and jeopardize regional progress.

Although the committee acknowledged Governor Uzodinma’s contributions to regional development, they emphasized that leadership cannot be centered on a single person.

In a joint statement, coalition secretary Comrade Nwagwu Nwaeke and chairman Dr. Comos Gilbert Egede voiced their worries.

Controversy has surrounded the SEDC board nominations, with rumors of a power struggle between Governor Uzodinma and Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives.

While Kalu worked to update and publish a second list of board nominees that was thought to be more representative, several media reports claimed that Governor Uzodinma had an impact on the original list.

The appointment of the chairman and executive directors is not a matter of interest to us. Peace, cooperation, and making sure the South East develops as planned are the main goals, the statement continued.
The coalition urged Governor Uzodinma to refrain from any actions that would cause the area to become even more unstable.

For our people’s sake, Governor Hope ought to put his sword down and let peace rule. In the interest of our own goals, we must refrain from taking any steps that could inflame the area,” the coalition urged.

The Ndi-Igbo were also exhorted to back political leaders who are dedicated to furthering the development of the area.

“For us, the creation of the SEDC represents an unparalleled opportunity. “Let’s not let special interests ruin this historic occasion,” they declared.

The significance of unity among South East leaders was also underlined by NET-Southeast, which encouraged them to follow in the footsteps of leaders such as Deputy Speaker Kalu, who supported the SEDC bill.

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For the South East’s growth, we urge prominent political office holders to cooperate. “Personal benefits at the expense of regional advancement must cease,” the organization proclaimed.

The purpose of the South East Development Commission is to empower, rebuild, and develop our people. We implore our leaders to put aside their own interests and maintain the peace and stability required to realize our vision,” the statement continued.