By Uchechukwu Okoroafor, Abuja
The establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) is a landmark achievement that has finally given hope to millions of people in the South East region of Nigeria. This long-awaited development initiative, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a pivotal step towards addressing the economic marginalization, infrastructural decay, and socio-political neglect the region has faced for decades.
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However, while many have celebrated this victory, there has been an unfortunate attempt to downplay the role of the key individual who was instrumental in the actualization of this vital bill—Honourable Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Despite attempts by some, including Dr. Josef Onoh, to diminish Hon. Kalu’s contribution, the facts are clear: Hon. Benjamin Kalu played a critical role in not only sponsoring the South East Development Bill but also ensuring its successful passage into law. It is important to recognize and appreciate the immense efforts, political acumen, and dedication that Hon. Kalu exhibited throughout this journey.
The South East region, comprising Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo states, has long been regarded as one of Nigeria’s most industrious zones. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, the region has nevertheless faced significant economic challenges, with dilapidated infrastructure, high unemployment, and insufficient federal investment limiting its potential. The need for a dedicated commission to address these issues had been a topic of discussion for many years, but it was not until Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s intervention that the conversation began to bear real fruit.
Kalu, representing the good people of Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, had been an advocate for the development of the South East region even before he assumed the position of Deputy Speaker. His vision for a prosperous and equitable South East aligned with the aspirations of millions in the region, and he understood that only through strategic policy and legislation could these aspirations be realized.
Hon. Benjamin Kalu is the architect and advocate. The role of a legislator goes beyond drafting and sponsoring bills; it involves mobilizing support, navigating political dynamics, and ensuring that the proposed legislation serves the interests of the people. Hon. Kalu’s advocacy for the South East Development Commission Bill began in earnest during the 9th Assembly. As a tenacious lawmaker with a deep understanding of the needs of his constituency and the entire region, Kalu worked tirelessly to bring the bill to the forefront of national discourse. Through consultations with stakeholders across the South East, including political leaders, business communities, traditional rulers, and youth groups, Kalu crafted a comprehensive bill that reflected the genuine concerns of the region. The bill sought to create a commission empowered to address infrastructural deficits, promote economic development, and foster peace and security in the South East. Its core objectives included the rehabilitation of federal roads, improving healthcare and education infrastructure, providing support for local businesses, and creating job opportunities for the youth.
Sponsoring a bill of such magnitude requires deft political maneuvering, and Hon. Benjamin Kalu proved himself to be a master of this. The South East Development Commission Bill was not just a regional matter; it needed the support of lawmakers from across the country. Kalu engaged in extensive lobbying, explaining the national importance of a developed South East to his colleagues from other regions. He argued that the commission’s success would contribute to national unity and economic growth, benefiting not only the South East but the entire country. His efforts paid off. By the time the bill was presented for debate, Kalu had successfully rallied enough support to see it passed through the House of Representatives. His ability to build bridges across party lines and regional divides was critical to this achievement. It is important to note that without such political strategy, the bill could easily have been stalled or rejected, as has happened to other similar proposals in the past.
Despite Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s clear and decisive role in the conception, sponsorship, and passage of the South East Development Commission Bill, there have been attempts by some, most notably Dr. Josef Onoh, to diminish Kalu’s contributions. Dr. Onoh has sought to reframe the narrative, suggesting that others played a more significant role in the actualization of the commission. While Dr. Onoh, like many other South Eastern leaders, may have supported the idea of a development commission for the region, the claim that anyone but Hon. Kalu was the primary force behind the bill is factually incorrect. Hon. Kalu’s leadership in the House of Representatives, his role as Deputy Speaker, and his persistent advocacy were crucial in driving the bill from mere discussion to legislative action. It is critical to set the record straight. Hon. Kalu’s efforts are well documented, both in the public domain and in legislative records. The bill’s passage through the House was a direct result of his relentless pursuit of the region’s development and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape of Nigeria’s National Assembly.
The final step in the journey of the South East Development Commission Bill was its signing into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This was a significant victory for the South East and a testament to the importance that President Tinubu places on national development and unity. However, even in this final phase, Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s role cannot be overlooked. His efforts to engage the executive branch, providing clear rationale and advocating for the bill’s signing, were critical in ensuring the bill’s success. President Tinubu’s decision to sign the bill into law was not merely a routine act but a recognition of the pressing need for development in the South East. His administration’s focus on national unity and equitable development aligns with the goals of the SEDC, which now has the mandate to address the region’s historical neglect. Yet, it was the groundwork laid by Hon. Kalu that made this possible.
While it is natural in politics for various individuals to claim credit for successful initiatives, it is important that we resist any attempt at historical revisionism. The South East Development Commission Bill was the product of Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s vision, dedication, and political skill. His efforts were instrumental in seeing the bill through its various legislative stages and ultimately to the desk of the President. The attempts by Dr. Josef Onoh and others to downplay Kalu’s role do a disservice to the facts. It is essential that we recognize the contributions of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring about positive change. Hon. Kalu’s leadership on this issue was exemplary, and his actions will have a lasting impact on the South East for generations to come.
As the South East Development Commission begins its work, it is critical that the incoming management stays focused on its core mandate. The commission must prioritize infrastructure development, industrialization, and human capital investment to uplift the region. The challenges ahead are immense, but with the right leadership and commitment, the SEDC can help transform the South East into a region of economic prosperity and social harmony. In this regard, Hon. Benjamin Kalu’s work is not done. As a lawmaker and a leader, he will continue to play a vital role in ensuring that the SEDC fulfills its mission. His vision for a developed South East remains clear, and his dedication to the people of the region is unwavering.
The establishment of the South East Development Commission is a victory for the people of the South East and a testament to the power of persistent advocacy. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, as the principal architect of this legislative achievement, deserves full recognition for his instrumental role in sponsoring the bill and guiding it through to its successful signing by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. While others may seek to claim or diminish credit, the facts remain clear: without Hon. Kalu’s leadership, the SEDC would not be a reality today. The people of the South East owe him a debt of gratitude, and the commission’s success will be a fitting testament to his vision and dedication.