Eze Ikwunna Ukwu, traditional ruler of Etiti-Ugwueke, Abia State, on Friday called for adequate funding and strict monitoring of the fiscal administration of the proposed South East Development Commission (SEDC) when it is established.
He said this would ensure efficiency and accountability.
The Senate recently read the SEDC Bill for the third time, waiting for its presidential assent.
SEDC is aimed at reintegrating and rebuilding the South East after the civil war.
Eze Ikwunna made the call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
The traditional ruler, who commended the government, said that the aim of floating the commission might be defeated without adequate funding and proper project monitoring
“The National Assembly and the Federal Government must entrench checks and balances in the framework to ensure fiscal discipline and disappoint political jobbers vastly in the hijacking of public funds.
“It is a good idea, but we should watch carefully to avoid financial malfeasance and diversion of funds meant for the common people.”
The traditional ruler expressed optimism that the commission would alleviate poverty, improve infrastructure, and end the perceived marginalisation of Igbo people if the resources were not misappropriated. (NAN)
