The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning to politicians and individuals in the South-East region, urging them not to misappropriate the N250 billion allocated for the newly established South-East Development Commission (SEDC). The group has emphasized that these funds must solely be used to foster the development of the region, ensuring that they reach their intended targets.
In a statement released on Sunday, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful underscored the critical need for developmental projects and social interventions in the South-East. “The funds should be channeled towards the region’s progress,” said Powerful. “This is a time for the South-East to develop, not for individuals to profit off public funds meant for the people.”
Powerful outlined several key initiatives that should be prioritized with the N250 billion, including the construction and expansion of roads, rehabilitation of federal hospitals, the establishment of new healthcare facilities, and the creation of power plants to ensure stable and affordable electricity for the region. “The South-East requires social intervention initiatives and industrialization that will generate employment for Igbo youth at this critical time,” he stated.
The IPOB also pointed to the urgent need for economic development in the region, such as the construction of free trade zones or industrial parks in states like Abia and Anambra. These projects, IPOB argued, would create jobs and stimulate the local economy. Moreover, the group called for the development of functional seaports and international airports to bolster regional trade and connectivity.
While acknowledging that N250 billion might not be enough to fully realize massive infrastructure projects like airports or seaports, IPOB stressed the importance of effective utilization, given that the funds are allocated annually. “It’s essential that the funds be used judiciously,” the statement read. “This will ensure that the intended projects are completed without delay or mismanagement.”
The group also highlighted the importance of investing in human capital by supporting the youth with technical and creative skills, emphasizing that Ndigbo are naturally endowed with ingenuity and creativity. “There needs to be a focus on human development alongside infrastructure,” IPOB added. “Supporting youth in developing their skills will ensure a more sustainable growth for the region in the long term.”
IPOB concluded its statement by warning that any attempt to embezzle or misappropriate the funds would not be tolerated. “This is not the time for politicians to loot the common treasury without accountability,” the statement asserted. “We are here to monitor and expose any wrongdoing and to hold accountable those working against the interests of the South-East.” The group further called for transparency in the allocation of funds, ensuring that every state and community in the region benefits equally from the N250 billion allocation.
