The governors of the five South East states, namely Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, are expected to gather in Umuahia on December 29 for the unveiling of the ‘Peace in South East Project.’ This significant event will also host traditional rulers, opinion leaders, captains of industry, and eminent personalities from various party affiliations. Mrs. Mary Ikoku, the Chairperson of the Media and Communication Committee for the project, revealed during a press conference in Abuja that the initiative coincides with the homecoming reception for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.
The Peace in South East Project, organized by the Peace in South East Project team and the people of Bende Local Government Area of Abia (the federal constituency of the Deputy Speaker), aims to appreciate Kalu’s dedication to public service and exceptional contributions to the South East and the nation. Mrs. Ikoku emphasized that the Deputy Speaker, through his role in the House of Representatives, has played a crucial part in shaping policies that address the needs and aspirations of the people in Bende Local Government Area, the South East, and the nation.
The peace initiative advocates for a non-kinetic strategy, deviating from the prevalent approach of using total military force to address security challenges in the region. Mrs. Ikoku urged the Nigerian military to adjust its operational strategy by fostering engagement with the local populace to build mutual trust and cooperation. She stated, “We don’t need the military to leave the South-East. We recognize the sacrifices the security agencies are making in keeping the insecurity in the South East, but we ask for a tweaking of their operational strategy through embracing the people by negotiation. A beacon of hope is here with a new non-kinetic approach. Let us dialogue and have a conversation with our people who are up in arms. All we want is peace in the South-East.”
Highlighting the thematic areas of focus, Mr. Ogbonna Ukuku, Head of Programmes, commended members of the House of Representatives for passing the bill on the establishment of the South-East Development Commission. He expressed confidence that this development would significantly contribute to bringing about peace in the region. The program aims to formally declare peace in the South East, covering various areas of intervention such as agriculture, education, leadership and governance, sports and entertainment, culture, and tourism, among others.