…says the senator’s position reflected a limited understanding of the SEDC mandate.
Awka, Nigeria — The iNews Times reports that a public affairs commentator, Ejimofor Opara, has cautioned the Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mark Okoye, against what he described as “minimalist interference” in the execution of the SEDC mandate, urging a focus on large-scale regional development initiatives.
Opara’s remarks followed comments made by Tony Nwoye during the recent SEDC budget defence, where the senator reportedly advocated micro-level interventions.
In a strongly worded statement, Opara questioned the role of a regional development commission engaging in projects that could be reduced to political patronage.
“What is the business of a development commission in making micro-level interventions that can become subject to political patronage and abuse?” Opara stated.
He argued that the senator’s position reflected a limited understanding of the SEDC mandate, stressing that the commission’s responsibilities differ from constituency-driven projects typically undertaken by legislators.
Opara said he aligned more closely with the position earlier expressed by Chukwuma Soludo during the SEDC Vision 2050 engagement in Enugu, where participants emphasised long-term regional transformation.
The commentator warned that the SEDC must avoid replicating what he described as the shortcomings of the Niger Delta Development Commission, alleging that the commission had historically focused on scattered projects lacking broad regional impact.
“SEDC should never be like NDDC that has become minimalist in its agenda. Apart from littering non-functional buildings and splashing pockets of projects, tell me one grand project that benefits the entire region,” he said.
Reinforcing his argument on the SEDC mandate, Opara insisted that Okoye must prioritise mega infrastructure and institutional reforms capable of fostering regional integration across the South East.
He noted that the commission should not be drawn into building primary healthcare centres or installing streetlights in individual communities, describing such interventions as responsibilities of local governments and elected representatives.
“Mark must think mega and macro. He should look out for projects that promote regional integration such as rail connectivity and institutional reforms that cut across states,” Opara added.
The statement further highlighted the need for investments in social reorientation and programmes aimed at addressing ideological divisions affecting development in the region.
Opara concluded by reiterating his warning, stressing that the success of the commission depends on strict adherence to its regional development focus.
“Again I insist, Mark must not listen to Senator Tony Nwoye and others who are yet to understand his mandate,” he said.
