The Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, has thrown his weight behind the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P), endorsing its non-kinetic approach to addressing the security challenges in the region. This endorsement follows the initiative’s proposal by members of the National Assembly from the South East, spearheaded by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
The project, which has gained substantial support from various sectors including the presidency, the National Assembly leadership, the business community, and the entertainment industry, received commendation from the Obi of Onitsha during a courtesy visit by Kalu and his delegation in Abuja on Wednesday night.
Achebe praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of restoring peace in the South East. “Your spirit is in the right direction. We are looking for the same thing. We just have to join forces and make things happen. We want peace and reconciliation in Igboland. Our strength is in what we can do for ourselves,” he expressed.
Deputy Speaker Kalu elaborated on the PISE-P concept, emphasizing that the initiative aims to address the sociological challenges in the South East using non-kinetic means. Kalu highlighted the pillars of the project, which include integration through infrastructure development, skills acquisition, education, and more. He emphasized the need for community involvement, urging people not to solely depend on the government for solutions.
“Kinetic means have not solved the issues of the region,” said Kalu, emphasising the importance of the non-kinetic approach proposed by PISE-P, which has received massive acceptance from various quarters.
The formal unveiling of the Peace in South East Project is scheduled to take place in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State on December 29, 2023.
