By CHARLES EKWERE

ABAKILIKI – Apex Igbo Socio-cultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for retaining the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi is a member of the Federal Executive Council.
Ohanaeze said the pivotal appointment represents not only a significant step toward rectifying historical injustices but also serves as a much-needed consolation gift to the Ndigbo people, both at home and in the diaspora.
According to the Igbo body, for the past fifty-four years, the Southeastern region of Nigeria has been beset by the scourge of systemic neglect in federal infrastructure development.
This is contained in a statement issued on Friday by Ohanaeze’s Secretary-General, Okechukwu Lsiguzoro, who led the Chidi Ibeh President-General faction and made available to Aljazirah Nigeria.
The statement read”This neglect has manifested itself as a silent but insidious form of capital punishment inflicted upon our people, stemming from the aftermath of the Biafra War and perpetuated by successive administrations that have largely offered only platitudes, devoid of actionable commitments.
“The consequences of this negligence have been dire, fanning the flames of agitation and restiveness among our citizens who yearn for equitable access to infrastructural amenities that have long been taken for granted in other regions.
“The deliberate and alarming lack of federal presence and investment in Southeastern Nigeria has not only heightened feelings of exclusion but has also stoked the embers of discontent that simmer beneath the surface of our society.
“The pattern of discrimination in the allocation of road projects and resources, along with other systemic federal policies, has perpetually relegated the Southeast to the sidelines, reinforcing the notion that we are undeserving of the same level of attention that other regions enjoy.
“This historical oversight has been a painful constant in the narrative of the South East since the conclusion of the Biafra War in 1970.
“In this context, President Tinubu’s enlightened appointment of Senator Dave Umahi, a distinguished son of the Southeast, as Minister of Works is not just a token gesture; it is a significant acknowledgment of our plight and a commitment to reversing the long-standing inequities that have marred our development.
“Senator Umahi’s appointment is both a symbol of hope and a clarion call for action, ensuring that the voices of the Southeast echo in the corridors of power.
“As an accomplished and certified engineer, Senator Umahi embodies the principle of excellence and integrity, qualities that will undoubtedly guide him in his role as Minister of Works.
“His vision encompasses the entire nation as his infrastructural constituency; however, we firmly believe that he will prioritize the needs of the Southeast with an unwavering commitment to quality and excellence.
“Under his stewardship, we anticipate a renaissance in infrastructure, characterized by the engagement of reputable construction firms that will ensure our roads and facilities are constructed to the highest possible standards.
“The Southeast has much to be thankful for since President Tinubu assumed office, particularly with the steadfast leadership Senator Umahi provides. His retention as Minister of Works is a watershed moment that marks the dawn of a new era for our region—a turning point that we believe will galvanize support for President Tinubu from the people of the Southeast.
“Our faith in Senator Umahi is unshakeable; we are confident that he will not compromise on standards, bringing our long-desired infrastructural improvements to fruition.
“We firmly stand behind Umahi, recognizing him as a worthy Igbo leader imbued with a fear of God and a sincere disposition to help President Tinubu’s government accomplish its vital mission of infrastructure development across the country.
“Our commitment to supporting President Tinubu remains robust and unwavering, deeply rooted in the confidence we have in Senator Umahi’s capabilities and integrity.
“We call upon all Ndigbo, both at home and abroad, to join hands in fostering a spirit of collaboration, unity, and support for this administration.
“Together, let us ensure that our voices are not only heard but resonate powerfully in the ongoing narrative of national development.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo believes that this momentous decision will catalyze change, one that will not only fortify the foundation for transformative infrastructural development in the Southeast but also fortify the bond between our region and the federal government.
“Let us all rally behind this initiative as we collectively pursue progress, equity, and justice for the Southeast and Nigeria as a whole.