A faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzor, Secretary General of the group, said in a statement:
”This momentous occasion marks a turning point in our history, as it signals a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the Igbo people, both at home and in the diaspora.
”After 54 long years since the end of the Nigeria-Civil War, the establishment of the SEDC represents a beacon of hope and a genuine reconciliatory gesture by the Federal Government.
”We recognize the leadership shown by President Tinubu in approving the creation of this commission, which will play a vital role in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the infrastructure in the South East region, which has long suffered from neglect and lack of development.”
He berated former Military Heads of State, such as General Yakubu Gowon, General Olusegun Obasanjo, General Muhammadu Buhari, and General Ibrahim Babangida, stressing that they failed to take decisive action to address the pains and devastation experienced by the Southeast.
According to him, ”President Tinubu’s courageous step in signing the SEDC bill into law demonstrates his commitment to righting the wrongs of the past and addressing the marginalization and injustices faced by the Igbo people.”
He added: ”The SEDC is a crucial vehicle through which funds from the federation account will be allocated for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructure that have been neglected for far too long.
”This initiative aligns with the principles of the Post Civil War Gowon’s 3Rs policy – Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation – and represents a significant step towards healing the wounds of the past.”
The group further stated that by addressing the root causes of Biafra agitation and insecurity challenges in the Southeast, the SEDC will pave the way for a brighter future for the region and its people.
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo acknowledges the importance of this commission in bringing about lasting peace and development in the Southeast.
”We extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to addressing the issues affecting the Igbo community and for his dedication to creating a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
”We also commend the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ben Okezie Kalu, and other Igbo Federal Lawmakers for their role in sponsoring this critical bill.
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of the Igbo people.
”We look forward to working together with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that the SEDC fulfills its mandate and brings about positive change in the South East region,” the statement concluded.
