After the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970, the Federal Government initiated the three Rs – Reconciliation, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation – aimed at integrating the war-affected Igbo community back into the Nigerian state. However, despite some efforts, such as a nominal sum given to adult Igbo citizens, the feeling of marginalization persisted, particularly during the presidency of Major-General Muhammadu Buhari.
While the North-East Development Commission was established in 2017 to address the devastation caused by Boko Haram insurgency, attempts to establish a similar commission for the South-East were repeatedly rejected in 2017 and 2018. However, in 2024, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu led efforts to pass the bill for the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), signaling hope for the region’s development.
The SEDC, once established, aims to bring about employment opportunities, infrastructural development, agricultural growth, educational advancement, healthcare access, and enhanced security through technological means. It is seen as a crucial step towards ending the lingering effects of the Civil War and promoting peace and prosperity in the South-East region.
The role of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu in championing this cause has been commendable, and there is optimism that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will support the bill. Additionally, there are hopes that the political situation surrounding Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will also be addressed, paving the way for comprehensive development in the South-East.
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