SEDC: “Igbo People Continually Harm Themselves,” Says Chekwas Okorie

Chief Chekwas Okorie, the first National Chairman of the African Peoples Democratic Party (APGA), called on stakeholders in the South‑East to back the South‑East Development Commission (SEDC) and to refrain from actions that could undermine the newly created agency.

Okorie made the appeal on Wednesday in Enugu, responding to the controversy that has arisen over the commission’s operations after a recent clash with the Senate Committee that oversees it.

DAILY POST reports that the Senate Committee, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has raised concerns about the commission’s management, including its spending on office accommodation and consultancy services.

Speaking at a press conference, Okorie urged the South‑East to stop “hurting itself” at a time when a development institution designed to tackle the region’s challenges is beginning to take shape.

“I have been involved in the struggle for the South‑East for over 50 years without interruption,” he said. “I know how much damage we do to ourselves, especially when good things are about to come our way.”

According to Okorie, the establishment of the commission by President Bola Tinubu represents a significant step toward addressing developmental issues that have stemmed from years of neglect and the legacy of the Nigerian civil war.

He praised the President for creating the commission and giving it a clear mandate to drive development in the South‑East.

When asked about the Senate Committee’s concerns, Okorie questioned why the issues were brought to public attention several months after funds had been appropriated for the commission.

He maintained that oversight should be carried out diligently and in a way that does not create the impression of divisions or ulterior motives within the region.

“Let us stop hurting ourselves. It is too early. After the commission waited for about one year and eight months before receiving funds, six months later the Senate committee suddenly began to raise alarm publicly. Oversight should be carried out diligently and maturely, without creating the impression that there are ulterior motives,” Okorie added.

Okorie also criticized the commission’s communication strategy, saying that inadequate public engagement has fueled rumours and speculation about its activities.

He urged the commission to provide regular updates on its achievements, challenges and plans for the funds already released.