The South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill, which has passed through third reading in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, will soon be transmitted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his assent, according to Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu.
Kalu made this revelation while receiving a courtesy visit from the Directors of the Institute for Peace, Security and Development Studies (IPSDS) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, led by their Co-Chairman, Chief Chikwe Udensi.
The SEDC Bill is an advocacy of the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), which aims to address infrastructural challenges in the region 53 years after the civil war. Kalu emphasized the need for a non-kinetic approach to resolving insecurity in the region, citing the limitations of military interventions.
The Deputy Speaker also called for the Institute’s collaboration in developing practical solutions to insecurity and de-radicalizing weapon bearers in the South East. He emphasized the importance of providing alternative livelihoods and skills to replace weapons, ensuring a sustainable peace.
The Institute’s Co-Chairman, Chief Udensi, expressed their willingness to partner with Kalu in achieving peace in the South East, acknowledging that peace is essential for progress and development.
The SEDC Bill’s transmission to President Tinubu for assent is imminent, following the conclusion of the Conference Committee stage for concurrence by both chambers of the National Assembly.