The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has condemned criticisms targeting the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, over the recently announced composition of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Board by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The appointments have sparked controversy, particularly from the South-East chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which, through its National Vice Chairman, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, accused the Deputy Speaker of influencing a biased selection that allegedly contravened the SEDC Act.
Responding in a statement, National President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike dismissed the allegations as baseless and driven by selfish motives.
He expressed satisfaction with the appointments, stating they include eminent Igbo sons and daughters and reflect inclusivity across the five South-East states.
“We are alarmed by the unwarranted criticisms of the SEDC Board members’ appointment. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the SEDC. It is disheartening to see his efforts undermined by baseless accusations,” Okwu said.
Okwu questioned the intentions of the critics, emphasizing that their objections seemed rooted in personal grievances rather than genuine concerns about Igbo interests.
“Where is the bias as alleged? Those crying foul are only doing so because their cronies were not appointed,” he said.
The youth leader further called on the Senate to expedite the screening and approval of the nominees, warning that delays could hinder development and disrupt the budgetary process.
Okwu praised President Tinubu for his commitment to grassroots development and urged him to disregard the dissenting voices.
He also encouraged the Deputy Speaker to remain focused on his service to the Igbo people.
“The majority of Ndigbo are pleased with the nominations and are eager to collaborate with the new Board to ensure the President’s development agenda reaches the grassroots.
“Aggrieved individuals should consider establishing their own state development commissions, as seen in Abia State, rather than distracting the President,” Okwu added.
Ohanaeze Youth reaffirmed their unwavering support for Rt. Hon. Kalu and the SEDC Board, urging critics to set aside selfish interests and focus on collective progress.
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