By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This move is seen as a critical step towards lasting peace and development in the region.
Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Chairman of the committee, emphasized that the security situation in the South East remains a major concern and must be addressed for any meaningful progress to take place. He stressed that the continued detention of Kanu has fueled tensions, deepened grievances, and hindered the region’s stability.
The South East Development Commission was established to bridge developmental gaps in the region. However, Hon. Nkwonta noted that sustainable development can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and inclusivity. He linked the establishment of the commission to the broader national effort of Reintegration, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation (RRR) initiated by the federal government.
Hon. Nkwonta commended President Tinubu for assenting to the bill establishing the commission but stressed that genuine reconciliation must also address the lingering issues of marginalization and political grievances in the South East. He emphasized that true reconciliation requires more than infrastructural development – it demands addressing historical grievances and ensuring justice for all.
The committee chairman pointed out that the South East is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. However, the region continues to face serious developmental and security challenges, including infrastructural decay, economic underdevelopment, poor healthcare services, human capital flight, and escalating insecurity.
Hon. Nkwonta argued that the detention of Nnamdi Kanu remains a flashpoint for unrest in the region, discouraging investments and slowing down developmental efforts. He called on the federal government to take bold steps towards national unity by embracing dialogue rather than prolonged detention and legal battles.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, inaugurated the committee and described the event as a renewed commitment to ensuring that the South East region receives the much-needed investment and attention for its growth and prosperity.
Abbas emphasized that the committee’s role is to provide legislative oversight, monitor the implementation of policies, and ensure that the commission fulfills its mandate with efficiency, transparency, and accountability. He urged the committee to focus on infrastructure development, industrial support, human capital growth, and fostering peace and security.
