A coalition of civil society organisations, non-governmental groups, and youth bodies under the Network for South East Development (NET-Southeast), has called on Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to prioritize peace and stability of the South East over personal interests.
Meeting for their end-of-year activities review in Enugu on Tuesday, NET-Southeast expressed concerns over controversies surrounding the recent appointments to the South East Development Commission (SEDC) board.
The group cautioned that the tension generated could escalate and undermine the progress of the region.
Acknowledging Governor Uzodinma’s contributions to regional development, the group stressed that leadership must not revolve around one individual.
The chairman of the coalition, Dr. Comos Gilbert Egede, and the secretary, Comrade Nwagwu Nwaeke in a joint statement expressed their concerns.
“The SEDC board appointments have been mired in controversy, with reports of a power struggle between Governor Uzodinma and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
“Some media reports said that Governor Uzodinma influenced the first list of board nominees, while Kalu worked to revise and release a second list deemed more representative.
“Our concern is not about who becomes the chairman or executive directors. It’s about peace, synergy, and ensuring the South East develops as expected,” the statement.
The coalition called on Governor Uzodinma to step back from any moves that could further destabilise the region.
“Governor Hope should sheathe his sword and allow peace to reign for the sake of our people. We must avoid actions capable of heating up the region in pursuit of personal ambitions,” the coalition appealed.
They also urged all Ndi-Igbo to support political leaders committed to advancing the region’s development.
“The establishment of the SEDC is an unprecedented opportunity for us. Let us not allow vested interests to tarnish this milestone,” they said.
NET-Southeast also emphasized the importance of unity among South East leaders, urging them to emulate leaders like Deputy Speaker Kalu, who sponsored the SEDC bill.
“We appeal to notable political office holders to work collaboratively for the development of the South East. The days of personal gains at the expense of regional progress must end,” the group declared.
They also made a clarion call for patriotism.
“The South East Development Commission was established to rebuild, develop, and empower our people. We urge our leaders to rise above self-interest and ensure the peace and stability needed to fulfill this vision,” the statement added.
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