The South East Civil Society Network (SECSONet) has called for restraint, fairness and constructive engagement in the ongoing oversight interactions between the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and the leadership of the Commission, warning that unnecessary political tension could undermine the region’s development aspirations.
In a statement signed by Prince Chris Azor on behalf of the network, SECSONet said it had closely monitored recent developments surrounding the oversight engagement and considered it necessary to speak out in the interest of peace, accountability and sustainable development in the Southeast.
The group described the South East Development Commission as a critical intervention agency established to address the region’s enormous infrastructure, economic and developmental deficits.
It stressed that the Commission requires stability, support and responsible supervision at this formative stage of its existence.
While acknowledging the constitutional oversight role of the National Assembly, SECSONet urged the Senate to exercise responsibility in a manner that strengthens institutions rather than creating an atmosphere of intimidation or political pressure.
“Oversight is necessary in every democracy and public institutions must remain accountable to the people.
“However, oversight must not create the impression of intimidation, political pressure, harassment or attempts to weaken institutions before they are allowed to function effectively,” the statement said.
The network urged the Senate Committee on SEDC to approach its engagement with the Commission in a fair, measured and professional manner capable of fostering institutional confidence rather than fear and uncertainty.
Blackmail allegation
SECSONet noted that public concerns are building up across the country alleging that lawmakers use some oversight processes as instruments of blackmail, coercion or bargaining pressure against public institutions.
It warned that whether such allegations are true or not, the perception remains damaging to democratic governance and should define the relationship between the Senate Committee and the Commission.
According to the group, the Southeast cannot afford a situation where a strategic development institution such as the SEDC becomes distracted, destabilised or subjected to avoidable political controversies at a time when the region urgently needs development interventions.
The civil society coalition further expressed concern over reports that the Commission is yet to receive substantial capital funding required to execute meaningful projects across the region.
It argued that greater attention should be directed towards securing adequate funding, ensuring institutional stability and facilitating transparent implementation of the Commission’s mandate.
To strengthen public confidence and enhance the Commission’s effectiveness, SECSONet called for a constructive and non-hostile engagement process between the Senate Committee and the SEDC leadership.
The group also advocated fair and professional oversight mechanisms that promote accountability without creating operational paralysis, immediate action to address the Commission’s funding challenges, and greater transparency through regular public communication by the SEDC.
In addition, it recommended the establishment of independent civil society monitoring and accountability frameworks to support transparency, project tracking and citizen participation in the Commission’s activities.
“As civil society actors, we encourage accountability in all ramifications and strongly support transparency and responsible management of public resources. At the same time, we believe that oversight should protect public institutions, not expose them to political pressure, media trial or institutional sabotage,” the statement added.
SECSONet stressed that the success of the South East Development Commission transcends politics and remains central to the region’s quest for development, reconstruction, economic recovery and renewed public confidence in government institutions.
The network therefore urged all stakeholders to act with wisdom, restraint and sincerity of purpose in the overall interest of the Southeast and the Nigerian federation.
