The House of Representatives Committee on the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in order to foster lasting peace and development in the region.
At the inaugural meeting of the legislative committee in Abuja on Wednesday, the committee’s chairman, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, emphasized that addressing the security challenges in the South-East is crucial for any meaningful progress to occur.
“Given the security issues in the region, the Committee, along with other concerned Nigerians, appeals to the President to assist in the release of Nnamdi Kanu as a step toward achieving lasting peace and development in the South-East,” he said.
Read Also: Kalu Appointed Chairman Of Senate Committee On South-East Development Commission
Nkwonta further noted that while the establishment of the South-East Development Commission, 54 years after the civil war, is a significant achievement, true reconciliation goes beyond infrastructure development—it requires addressing historical injustices and ensuring justice for all.
Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, who was represented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, described the inauguration of the committee as a vital move to tackle the developmental challenges facing the South-East.
Abbas explained that the committee’s creation signifies a renewed commitment to ensuring the region receives the necessary investments and attention to foster its growth and prosperity.
“The formation of this committee is not just a formality,” Abbas remarked. “It marks the beginning of an effort to unlock the full potential of the South-East, a region known for its resilience, industriousness, and entrepreneurial spirit.”
He also clarified that the committee’s role includes providing legislative oversight, monitoring policy implementation, and ensuring that the commission fulfills its mandate with efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
