The anticipation is palpable as the governors of the five South East states—Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo—are set to gather in Umuahia on Friday, December 29, for the unveiling of the ‘Peace in South East Project.’
This pivotal event is expected to draw a diverse array of guests, including traditional rulers, opinion leaders, captains of industry, and eminent personalities cutting across party lines.
In a press conference held in Abuja on Friday, Mrs. Mary Ikoku, the Chairperson of the Media and Communication Committee of the project, revealed that the initiative coincides with the homecoming reception for Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.
The dual-purpose event aims to acknowledge Kalu’s unwavering commitment to public service and outstanding contributions to the South East region and the nation as a whole.
Mrs. Ikoku highlighted that the Peace in South East Project, in collaboration with the people of Bende Local Government Area in Abia (Kalu’s Federal constituency), is organizing the event.
She expressed immense pride in Deputy Speaker Kalu’s achievements, emphasizing his dedication to the well-being and progress of the South East.
“As the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, he has played and continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that address the needs and aspirations of the people of Bende Local Government Area, the South East, and the nation at large,” she affirmed.
The peace initiative advocates for a non-kinetic strategy, differing from the prevailing approach of relying solely on total military force to address security challenges in the region.
Mrs. Ikoku urged the Nigerian military to adjust its operational strategy by engaging with the local populace to build mutual trust and cooperation.
“While we acknowledge the sacrifices made by the security agencies in addressing insecurity in the South East, we advocate for a tweak in their operational strategy through negotiation and dialogue.
A beacon of hope is here with a new non-kinetic approach. Let us engage in conversation with our people who are up in arms. All we seek is peace in the South East,” she passionately declared.
Head of Programmes, Mr. Ogbonna Ukuku, spoke about the thematic areas of focus for the peace project.
He commended the House of Representatives for passing the bill on the establishment of the South-East Development Commission, emphasizing its potential to contribute significantly to peace in the region. Ukuku disclosed that the program would mark the formal declaration of peace in the South East, drawing participants from across the country.
“This is a significant gathering and a declaration of peace in the South East. We anticipate interventions in areas such as agriculture, education, leadership and good governance, sports and entertainment, culture, and tourism, among others,” he outlined.
As the South East gears up for this momentous summit, eyes are on the potential impact of this collaborative initiative in fostering peace, development, and unity in the region.
