Photo caption: South East Nigeria
No fewer than 30 civil society groups under the aegies of ‘Concerned Civil Society Organisations and Citizens of South-East’, have expressed deep concern over the issue of “imbalancing, misrepresentation and marginalisation” of the South-East, saying the development is adversely affecting the region.
The group averred that the ongoing exclusion of South-East from critical government appointments, such as the National Population Commission board, represents not merely a political oversight, but a direct affront to the dignity and rights as a people.
In a press statement jointly signed and released on Tuesday, the groups said the situation highlights a disturbing trend where the voices of the South-East are systematically sidelined in significant national discussions, adding that this exclusion, coupled with the inaction of the political leaders, has fostered a growing sense of disillusionment among the populace, leading to frustration that demands immediate attention.
The statement read in part, “We urgently call upon you, our representatives, to champion the interests of the South-East. It is essential that you advocate for our rightful place in national governance and challenge the exclusionary practices that undermine our collective rights. The principles of federal character must not be allowed to erode under the weight of political machinations aimed at subjugating the interests of the Southeast.
“Our organisations are actively contemplating legal action as a means to hold the federal government accountable for these injustices. However, we emphasised that legal recourse alone will not suffice. Mobilizing the electorate and empowering citizens to recognize their collective power is crucial. We need to demand greater accountability from those in leadership and advocate for the interests of our region.
“Engagement with CSOs, traditional leaders, and proactive political representatives can significantly amplify our collective voice. Together, we should foster a culture of active citizenship that demands transparency and accountability from elected officials. This community effort is vital for reshaping our political landscape.
“We have patiently waitedfor a strong response from our elected representatives, but the lack of action is disheartening. Let us not allow this moment to pass without decisive action. We call on you to take our pleas seriously and initiate a united effort for change. Proper representation of the Southeast is not only critical for addressing our unique needs but also essential in protecting the political interests of our citizens.
“Together, we can reclaim our narrative and ensure that the concerns of the Southeast are prioritized in national discourse. We look forward to your earnest response and meaningful action.”
The groups include, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights, NchekwaNdiOgbenye Foundation, Better Community Life Initiative, Sisters with a Goal Initiative Swag, Onurube Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence, Institutional and sustainable development foundation, Advocates for Accountability and Inclusion in Africa, Good Samsuji Global Rescue Foundation Incorporated, Serene Society Initiative.
Others are Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development, Alliance for Inclusive Development-AIDAfrica Centre For Rural Economic & Social Development, Center For Rural Economic & Social Development, Alliance for Inclusive Development- AidAfrica, Foundation for Livelihood Advancement, Neighbourhood Environment Watch Foundation, Neighbourhood Environment Watch Foundation, Alliance for Inclusive Development- AidAfrica, Foundation for Livelihood Advancement, Center for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS).
It also includes Ethics and Corporate Compliance Institute of Nigeria, Vivacious Development Initiative, Vision Spring Initiatives, Women Empowerment Education and Peace Building Initiative, Igbo National Congress, Igbo Union – NzukoNdi-Igbo, Centre for Rural Economic and Social Development, Global Health Awareness Research Foundation Owerri, Windows Welfare Foundation and Okigwe Think Tank
