Philip Nyam 
The members of the House of Representatives from the southeast geopolitical zone have expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, for signing into law, the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Establishment Bill.
Celebrating the historic feat in Abuja, the lawmakers took turns to thank the president and as well commend Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu for sponsoring the bill.
In their separate remarks, the elated lawmakers reiterated the call for the release of the proscribed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in custody since 2021.
They also urged Ndigbo to shun the planned protest, expressing optimism that the SEDC Act will address the effects of war.
In his remarks, Ginger Onwusibe commended Mr President and the deputy speaker, saying that Ndi Igbo is grateful and happy.
He said, “On Tuesday we received good news, good news for the Igbos. We are very happy to hear that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assented to the South East Development Commission, SEDC bill. A bill sponsored by our brother who God has blessed, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives”
On his part, Nnolim Nnaji said, “We thank our own Deputy Speaker, you’re leading us well. We are also thankful for our brother, Speaker Tajudeen Abass and the entire leadership of the National Assembly.
“We are grateful for our deputy speaker, we will continue to support and pray for you. We thank you, please continue the good work. We are optimistic that our needs will be met.
Also, Chike Okafor said, “We are happy and grateful to Mr President. We commend our brother, the Deputy Speaker for all his efforts. With this I believe much more will come before the end of the tenth assembly. We will always stand by your side. We are optimistic much more is coming our way.”
In his closing remarks, Deputy Speaker Kalu appreciated Mr President and all his colleagues for their support in ensuring that the bill becomes law.
He reiterated his call on Nigerians not to participate in the planned nationwide protests against the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.
He stressed that the SEDC Act is a testament to the President Tinubu administration’s resolve to heal the wounds of the past, bury the rumours of the “marginalisation of the South-East geopolitical zone,” and renew the hope of the nation towards equitable economic growth and socio-cultural renewal.
Thanking the governors of the 5 southeast states for their support, Kalu appealed to all citizens to continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
