South-East Crisis Reducing Under Tinubu, Says Kalu

The crisis in Nigeria’s South-East region, driven by various agitations, has significantly diminished under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, thanks to his non-kinetic approach to peace. Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, highlighted this in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu.

Kalu spoke at the plenary session of the 2024 First Ordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament in Abuja. He praised President Tinubu’s strategy as a paradigm shift from the traditional military responses.

“The usual tradition has been to send the military with their arms to crisis areas, engaging in battles. But there is a new wave now in my country where issues are being resolved without military force, using a non-kinetic approach,” Kalu said. He emphasized that this method has been effective in calming tensions and restoring peace in the South-East.

Kalu urged the ECOWAS Parliament to consider adopting similar non-kinetic strategies in resolving regional conflicts, noting the positive outcomes already visible in Nigeria.

He further mentioned that the administration is actively working towards the release of imprisoned agitators through political solutions rather than litigation, fostering reconciliation and reducing unrest in the region.

Highlighting President Tinubu’s support for the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), Kalu stated, “The president supported the initiative I birthed, sending the vice president to represent him at the project’s official unveiling. This administration is unique, shifting from crisis management through military operations to addressing root causes and promoting dialogue.”

Kalu lauded Tinubu’s inclusive governance approach, which involves investing in infrastructure and addressing the socio-economic needs of the people. He noted the administration’s focus on healthcare, roads, and agricultural support as means to reduce agitation and promote peace.

In his remarks, Kalu also congratulated President Tinubu on his reelection as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of States and Governments, recognizing his leadership and efforts in fostering regional stability.