Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has applauded the signing of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law by President Bola Tinubu.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of the organization, said in a statement: ”This historic moment marks a significant milestone in addressing the long-standing issues of marginalization, injustices, and deliberate exclusion faced by the Igbo people.”
He added: ”For 54 years after the Nigeria Civil War ended, the Igbo community has endured the devastating aftermath of infrastructural damage suffered during the conflict.
”The establishment of the SEDC represents a beacon of hope and reconciliation, signalling a genuine effort by the Federal Government to right the wrongs of the past.
”We extend our profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his foresight and commitment to addressing the needs of the South East region.
He added that former Military Heads of State, including General Yakubu Gowon, General Olusegun Obasanjo, General Muhammadu Buhari, and General Ibrahim Babangida, failed to implement policies that would officially end the suffering and neglect experienced by the Southeast.
”President Tinubu’s bold decision to sign the SEDC bill into law demonstrates his dedication to bringing about positive change and fostering unity within the nation.
”The SEDC will serve as a crucial mechanism for receiving and managing funds allocated from the federation account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other vital infrastructure in the South East.
”This initiative aligns with the principles of the Post Civil War Gowon’s 3Rs policy, which focuses on Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation,” he noted.
He further stated that by addressing the root causes of Biafra agitation and insecurity challenges in the Southeast, the SEDC will pave the way for sustainable development and prosperity in the region.
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo commends the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ben Okezie Kalu, and other Igbo Federal Lawmakers for championing the bill and ensuring its passage into law.
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo extends our heartfelt appreciation to President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the South East.
”This momentous occasion marks a significant step towards healing old wounds, fostering unity, and promoting progress in our beloved nation,” the statement concluded.
Meanwhile, a Nigerian businessman of Igbo origin, Gaius Chibueze, has encouraged traders and entrepreneurs from the southeast to return home and invest in their region.
Chibueze, a prominent Bitcoin trader, advised on social media, adding that the move will ensure Ndi Igbo progress in their ventures. According to him, the southeast zone has suffered so many setbacks in the last four years.
