CSOs Decry Exclusion Of Southeast In NPC Board, Silence Of Elected Leaders
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has decried the non-inclusion of a Southeastner in the membership of the recently constituted National Population Commission (NPC) board.
The coalition comprising 30 CSOs including Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) expressed their concern regarding the pervasive issue of representation and marginalisation that was adversely affecting the region.
The group called in Southeast governors
Southeast state legislators, members of the national assembly and
Leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to urgently champion the interests of the Southeast.
The Statement which was made available by Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma, the Executive Director of RULAAC said the situation highlighted a disturbing trend of systemic silencing of voices of the Southeast in significant national discussions.
The group said it had patiently awaited strong response from elected representatives of Southeast but noted that the lack of action was disheartening.
“The ongoing exclusion of Southeasterners from critical government appointments, such as the NPC board, represents not merely a political oversight but a direct affront to our dignity and rights as a people.
“This exclusion, coupled with the inaction of our political leaders, has fostered a growing sense of disillusionment among the populace, leading to frustration that demands immediate attention.
“It is essential that you advocate for our rightful place in national governance and challenge the exclusionary practices that undermine our collective rights,” it said.
The coalition said the principles of federal character must not be allowed to erode under the weight of political machinations aimed at subjugating the interests of the Southeast.
The CSOs were actively contemplating legal action as a means to hold the federal government accountable for these injustices while noting that legal recourse alone would not suffice.
It said proper representation of the Southeast was not only critical for addressing the unique needs of the people but also essential to protecting the political interests of the citizens.
“We need to demand greater accountability from those in leadership and advocate for the interests of our region.
“Engagement with CSOs, traditional leaders, and proactive political representatives can significantly amplify our collective voice.
“Together, we should foster a culture of active citizenship that demands transparency and accountability from elected officials.
“This community effort is vital for reshaping our political landscape, let us not allow this moment to pass without decisive action.
“We call on you to take our pleas seriously and initiate a un
ited effort for change,” he said.
