By Abubakar Yunusa
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has dismissed criticisms targeting Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, over the composition of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) board.
The announcement of the SEDC board members by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked discontent in the South-East, particularly from the region’s All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter. Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, APC National Vice Chairman for the South-East, accused the Deputy Speaker of influencing the appointments, which he alleged did not adhere to the enabling Act of the Commission.
However, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council, described the criticism as baseless and selfish.
“It is unfortunate that some Igbo personalities oppose initiatives that do not serve their interests,” Okwu said in a statement released Thursday.
He argued that the appointments reflect the interests of the wider Igbo community, adding, that “The majority of Igbos are pleased with the nominations and are eager to work with the appointees to implement grassroots development projects.”
Okwu noted that the SEDC board includes representatives from all five South-East states, refuting claims of bias.
“These board members are eminent Igbo sons and daughters. The opposition is simply because certain individuals did not see their cronies appointed,” he added.
The Ohanaeze Youth leader called on the Senate to expedite the screening and approval of the board members, emphasizing the urgency of the Commission’s developmental responsibilities.
“Any delay will hinder progress and negatively impact the region, especially with the budget season approaching,” he stated.
Okwu also urged the Deputy Speaker to remain focused on his legislative duties, dismissing the criticisms as distractions.
“Rt. Hon. Kalu is the highest-ranking Igbo in government, and we urge him to continue his good work for Ndigbo. Those complaining are driven by selfish interests and should not be taken seriously,” he said.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointments, the youth group urged other aggrieved individuals to emulate states like Abia by establishing state-level development commissions.
“The President should be allowed to do his job without undue interference. Ndigbo stand firmly behind these appointments and look forward to their contributions to regional development,” Okwu said
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