The Nzuko Alaigbo Socio-Cultural Progressives has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu over his recent reconstitution of the board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and commitment to fostering development in the region.
In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, the group also commended the deputy speaker of the house of representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for championing the SEDC Bill and maintaining close collaboration with the presidency to ensure its enactment and implementation.
The statement, signed by ambassador Dr Tim Ihemadu, national president of the organisation, also dispelled media reports suggesting discord among South East political leaders over the Board’s composition.
Ihemadu noted that the region remains united and fully supports President Tinubu’s administration.
He acknowledged the president’s swift action in reconstituting the board despite initial setbacks and described the move as a testament to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
He noted that this marks a significant milestone in efforts to reintegrate the South East into Nigeria’s national framework since the end of the civil war in 1971.
The group also called on President Tinubu to facilitate the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been acquitted by the courts.
Addressing reports of tension between Hon. Kalu and Imo state governor, Hope Uzodimma, Ihemadu clarified that no such conflict exists, reiterating that the focus remains on the region’s progress and unity.
The group further expressed optimism about the newly reconstituted board’s ability to drive meaningful change, citing the inclusion of individuals with impeccable credentials.
They assured President Tinubu of the South East’s support for his administration.
The statement reads, “The reconstitution of the Board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has set the region agog.
Initially, the first list of the Board that came out had kept everyone silent, but having rejigged the Board with a more dynamic approach, it now has those who will champion the cause of development for the region. Men with impeccable track records are now on the Board to manage the commission”.
“We want to thank Mr. President for quickly constituting the Board, because people were thinking that this thing will not materialize. In fact, initially, people were thinking that he would not sign the Bill (for the establishment of the SEDC), but he has signed it and finally he has constituted the Board with the right people, we want to appreciate Mr. President for this gesture.
Since 1971 that the war ended, all efforts to re-integrate the South East in to the Nigerian State have not really worked out. This is the first time – meaning that the President is talking and doing. It means that he says something, he maintains and delivers it, we want to appreciate him for bringing the right people”.
“We also want to thank the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for championing the Bill and being in close contact with Mr. President and the leadership in making sure the Bill is signed.
We have proven the nay-sayers wrong by constituting the Board and Management of the Commission.”
“This is the first time we are seeing Renewed Hope in action. Indeed, Renewed Hope is already being felt in the South East currently and everywhere in the South East, people are happy and jubilating that indeed, President Tinubu means well for the region.
We therefore want to thank Mr. President and assure him of our continued support.”
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