Under the aegis of the Network for South East Development (NET-Southeast), a coalition of civil society organizations has encouraged Senator Hope Uzodinma, the governor of Imo State, to put the peace and stability of the South East ahead of his own interests.
NET-Southeast voiced reservations about the recent nominations to the board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) during a meeting in Enugu to review their year’s activities.
The group issued a warning that the friction created would worsen and jeopardize the region’s advancement.
While praising Governor Uzodinma’s contributions to regional growth, the group emphasized that leadership cannot be centered on a single person.
In a joint statement, Comrade Nwagwu Nwaeke, the coalition’s secretary, and Dr. Comos Gilbert Egede, its chairman, voiced their worries.
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A power battle between Governor Uzodinma and Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has reportedly surrounded the SEDC board appointments.
According to some media sources, Kalu worked to update and publish a second list of board nominees that was thought to be more representative, while Governor Uzodinma had an impact on the initial list.
“Who becomes the chairman or an executive director is not a concern of ours. It’s about harmony, peace, and making sure the South East grows as planned,” the statement continued.
Governor Uzodinma was urged by the coalition to refrain from any actions that would cause the area to become even more unstable.
For the benefit of our people, Governor Hope ought to put his weapon down and permit peace to prevail. In order to pursue our individual goals, we must refrain from taking any steps that could cause the region to heat up,” the coalition urged.
Additionally, they exhorted all Ndi-Igbo to back political figures that are dedicated to furthering the development of the area.
“The SEDC’s creation presents us with a never-before-seen opportunity. They replied, “Let’s not let special interests ruin this historic occasion.”
Along with stressing the value of unity among South East leaders, NET-Southeast urged them to follow in the footsteps of Deputy Speaker Kalu, who supported the SEDC bill.
“We encourage prominent political figures to cooperate for the South East’s development. The group proclaimed, “Personal gains at the expense of regional progress must end.”
“To restore, develop, and empower our people, the South East Development Commission was founded. In order to realize this vision, we implore our leaders to put aside their own interests and maintain the peace and stability required,” the statement continued.
