The South East Communities Development Association (SECDA), a socio-economic pressure group in the South East zone with keen interest in redressing the socio infrastructural decay, underdevelopment and alleged marginalization of the South East zone from the mainstream of Nigeria’s leadership, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to fast track the release of funds already captured in the budget to enable the South East Development Commission (SEDC) live up to its mission and objectives.
According to the group, President Tinubu gave hope of redressing the socio-eonomic and infrastructural balance against the South East zone by signing the bill establishing SEDC into law on assumption of office but almost two years after constituting SEDC board, funds to start executing projects have eluded the Commission.
SECDA expressed unhappiness with the lacuna that is presently existing in SEDC due to non-provision of funds, stating it is dimming its initial joy and overwhelming trust in the leadership.
SECDA made this known in an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where it called for his urgent intervention.
The ‘OPEN LETTER OF APPEAL’ was jointly signed by its National Director, Engr. Isidore Ehochi, Barr John Chukwu Obasi -National Secretary and Barr Chijioke Emenalo – SECDA’S Legal Adviser.
The open letter reads, “On behalf of the South East Communities Development Association (SECDA), we write to you with a sense of urgency and heartfelt commitment, on behalf of the over 2,000 autonomous communities in the South East region of Nigeria. We appeal to your esteemed office to release the funds already captured in the budget for the South East Development Commission (SEDC), as we believe that this action will signify your unwavering commitment to our region’s growth and prosperity.
“The establishment of the SEDC was a monumental step towards addressing the developmental needs and aspirations of our communities. And in appreciation of your vision for signing the bill creating this commission into law in 2024, we had sent our heartfelt gratitude to you through the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu at our South East Communities Development Regional Conference held at Enugu on the 31st May,2025.
“However, we find ourselves at a critical juncture where the communities, full of hope and anticipation for progress, are growing weary of waiting for tangible actions to materialize. The ever-pressing issues of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment remain stark reminders of the promises made, while the absence of necessary funding stifles our drive for meaningful development.
“We recognize that governance requires patience and due diligence, but the prolonged delay in the disbursement of these funds not only dampens the spirits of our people but also raises concerns about the sincerity of fulfilling political promises. We want to assure you that we, the members of SECDA, are not just calling for development; we are standing with our communities, who are yearning for justice and equity.
“We sincerely hope that the SEDC does not become another casualty of unmet promises, a situation that would cause irreparable harm to the trust placed upon our leaders.
“Mr President, we have faith in your leadership and your dedication to the betterment of all Nigerians. Your vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria resonates deeply with our aspirations for the South East. We urge you to act swiftly in releasing the earmarked funds to the SEDC. Doing so will not only empower the Commission to commence meaningful work but will also demonstrate to the people of the South East that their needs and welfare matter to their government.
“We are praying fervently that you will be a champion for the rights of our people, one who not only speak about development but also act decisively to ensure it materializes.
” Our region is rich in potentials and unwavering spirit; with the right resources, we believe we can contribute significantly to the economic and social fabric of Nigeria.
“We request that you alleviate our people’s concerns by facilitating the immediate release of the SEDC funds so that we can begin building a future filled with possibilities and progress”.
SECDA in the letter expressed optimism that President Tinubu will hearken to their prayers in line with the “RENEWED HOPE AGENDA’ of his administration.
SECDA also expressed, “Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter. We remain hopeful for a positive response and are eager to witness the change we have long sought”.
