SEDC Act: Deputy Speaker Kalu Urges Igbos to Shun Agitation and Protests

Hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, called on his fellow Igbos to cease agitations.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Kalu urged the people of the region and all Nigerians to forgo the planned nationwide protest, arguing that kinetic approaches to governance issues are unproductive.

“To my fellow south easterners, I implore you not to join the planned anti-government protest. Instead, let us view the signing of the South East Development Commission bill into law as a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to healing past wounds, addressing the rumors of southeast marginalization, and renewing the hope for equitable economic growth and socio-cultural renewal.

“This is a time for unity, progress, and peace—not division and unrest. Unrest and division will only further under-develop us. In an atmosphere of peace and unity, we can achieve the progress promised by our forefathers.

“I also urge Nigerians from all walks of life to avoid protests and continue to trust in the process. Say no to protests and yes to a process that involves people-centered policy formulations, which the parliament insists on. Believe in this process, not the protests, and we will realize the benefits promised by this government,” Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker, expressing gratitude for the President’s focus on the southeast region 54 years after the civil war, called for more patience with Tinubu’s administration.

He said, “The reforms of this current administration will take time but will soon yield results, including reversing inflation, stabilizing the economy, and creating massive employment through industrialization and the initiatives of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

“With the SEDC, we will enhance agriculture, foster industrialization, and leverage digital economy opportunities. Our creativity will elevate cultural and entertainment platforms like Igbowood. Our youth and women will be central to our development. It’s time to harness our region’s resources for industrial parks, using our gas deposits to power them. This will provide productive employment for our youths, previously marginalized.

“It’s no longer time to carry arms but to acquire skills facilitated by the SEDC. This initiative lays the foundation for peace and security in the southeast.

“On behalf of the southeast, I express deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the SEDC bill into law. This victory shows that much can be achieved through lobbying, negotiation, and diplomacy—not conflict and protest.

“I thank the Governors of the southeast states for their support and congratulate them. This achievement during their tenure benefits their states and citizens, thanks to the President’s love for the southeast. Our strength lies in our shared dreams and collective efforts.

“In conclusion, unity will transform our shared dreams and visions into reality. Together, we can build a Nigeria that offers every child a decent shot at life, where opportunities are open to all. With the South East Development Commission, we address long-standing issues of reconciliation, reintegration, reconstruction, and rehabilitation.

“Say no to agitation, conflict, crisis, and protest. Let us support this government,” Kalu urged.

President Tinubu recently signed the bill establishing the South East Development Commission. Sponsored by Hon. Kalu, the bill seeks to create a commission to manage funds from the federation account for reconstructing and rehabilitating infrastructure in the region, addressing damages suffered during the civil war 54 years ago.