The Southeast Communities Development Association (SECDA), Ebonyi State chapter, has called on stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement and implementation of the N250 billion recently allocated by the Federal Government to the Southeast Development Commission for regional infrastructure and human capital development.
Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki over the weekend, the acting coordinator of SECDA in Ebonyi State, Comrade Austin Oroke, stressed the importance of using the fund judiciously to address the longstanding developmental neglect of communities in the region.
Oroke explained that SECDA, a registered body under the Corporate Affairs Commission since 2014, was established to mobilize meaningful stakeholders across the five Southeastern states—Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Anambra to tackle the challenges facing rural and underdeveloped communities.
“The association was formed because of the deplorable nature of our communities. Since then, we have been working with traditional rulers, local government leaders, and other stakeholders to drive grassroots development,” he said.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Southeast Development Commission, describing it as a long-overdue intervention aimed at addressing infrastructural decay, youth unemployment, lack of clean water, poor electrification, and limited access to skills training in the region.
Oroke disclosed that following the formation of the commission, a regional conference was held in Enugu where community needs were articulated and submitted in a communique to the commission.
The N250 billion federal allocation, he noted, is expected to kickstart several intervention projects across the 95 local government areas in the region.
“Our roads, electrification, potable water, skill acquisition, agriculture, and even cooperative societies are part of the identified priorities. Now that the funds are available, we expect urgent action and proper monitoring,” he stated.
The SECDA coordinator issued a stern warning to corrupt politicians and contractors, urging them not to divert or mismanage the fund.
“This is the first time the Southeast is being remembered in this manner. It would be a disgrace for any leader or official to tamper with these funds.
"This money must go directly into projects that uplift our communities,” he warned.
On governance in Ebonyi State, Oroke praised Governor Francis Nwifuru for prioritizing education and youth development.
The Coordinator specifically lauded the administration’s scholarship initiatives, which have benefited indigent students, including those studying abroad—something he described as unprecedented.
“The people’s charter of needs by the present leadership of Governor Francis Nwifuru is gradually transforming our state, especially in the area of education. This is commendable,” he added.
Oroke reaffirmed SECDA’s commitment to working with the Southeast Development Commission to monitor project implementation and ensure that no community is left behind.