Not less than 25 civil society organizations, united under the umbrella of the Concerned Civil Society Organisations and Citizens of South-East, have expressed deep concern over the persistent issues of imbalanced representation, misrepresentation, and marginalization of the South-East geopolitical zone. The groups warn that these developments are adversely affecting the region’s socio-political and economic wellbeing.
The coalition highlighted the ongoing exclusion of South-East indigenes from critical government appointments as a major cause for alarm. A recent example cited is the South-East’s omission from the National Population Commission board.
The groups contend that this is not merely a political oversight but a direct affront to the dignity, rights, and rightful place of the South-East people in Nigeria’s federal structure.
In a press statement jointly signed and released on Tuesday, the groups underscored that this exclusion reflects a disturbing trend of systematically sidelining South-East voices in important national discussions and decision-making processes.
They further noted that this marginalization, combined with the apparent inaction of political leaders from the region, has led to growing frustration and disillusionment among the populace, a situation they believe demands urgent redress.
The statement reads in part: “We urgently call upon you, our representatives, to champion the interests of the South-East. It is essential that you advocate for our rightful place in national governance and challenge the exclusionary practices that undermine our collective rights. The principles of federal character must not be allowed to erode under the weight of political machinations aimed at subjugating the interests of the South-East.”
The groups also revealed their intention to consider legal action to hold the federal government accountable for these perceived injustices. However, they stressed that legal recourse alone would not suffice. Mobilizing the electorate and empowering citizens to recognize their collective power is equally critical.
The statement emphasized the need for citizens to demand greater accountability from their leaders and actively advocate for the interests of the South-East.
The coalition called for increased engagement with civil society organizations (CSOs), traditional rulers, and proactive political representatives as a strategy to amplify the region’s collective voice.
They urged the fostering of a culture of active citizenship focused on transparency and accountability from elected officials, describing this community effort as vital for reshaping the political landscape.
Highlighting the region’s growing impatience, the groups lamented the slow response from elected representatives so far. They warned against allowing this critical moment to pass without decisive action, emphasizing that proper representation is crucial not only for addressing the South-East’s unique needs but also for protecting the political interests of its citizens.
“Together, we can reclaim our narrative and ensure that the concerns of the South-East are prioritized in national discourse. We look forward to your earnest response and meaningful action,” the statement concluded.
The civil society groups involved in this coalition represent a broad spectrum of interests and causes. Among them are:
Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre
Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights
NchekwaNdiOgbenye Foundation
Better Community Life Initiative
Sisters with a Goal Initiative (SWAG)
Onurube Coalition Against Gender-Based Violence
Institutional and Sustainable Development Foundation
Advocates for Accountability and Inclusion in Africa
Good Samsuji Global Rescue Foundation Incorporated
Serene Society Initiative
Others include:
Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development
Alliance for Inclusive Development (AID Africa)
Centre for Rural Economic & Social Development
Foundation for Livelihood Advancement
Neighbourhood Environment Watch Foundation
Center for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS)
Ethics and Corporate Compliance Institute of Nigeria
Vivacious Development Initiative
Vision Spring Initiatives
Women Empowerment Education and Peace Building Initiative
Igbo National Congress
Igbo Union – NzukoNdi-Igbo
Global Health Awareness Research Foundation Owerri
Windows Welfare Foundation
Okigwe Think Tank
Together, these organizations call for unity and decisive action to safeguard the political, social, and economic rights of the South-East region, urging all stakeholders to rise to the occasion for meaningful inclusion and representation.