By Ekunkonye Junior , Abuja
Although he hailed the establishment of development commissions in geopolitical zones, but the Principal Partner, Chinenye Chambers, Amobi Nzelu Esq, warned that if not checked, the aims and objectives may be hundred by greedy ones.
In a letter he recently wrote to Mr President, Nzelu said that the move has been hailed as a masterstroke, but was quick to add that concerns have been raised about the potential for these commissions to become cash cows for politicians, enriching themselves at the expense of development.
According to him, the South East Development Commission, for instance, has already raised eyebrows with its constantly changing lists, sparking fears that it may be business as usual for politicians. “It is imperative that the terms and conditions of these commissions are clearly spelled out to prevent corruption and ensure that they serve their intended purpose, ” Nzelu advised.
He notes that the primary objective of the commissions is to foster interconnectivity among states within each zone, promoting development and growth.
“However, this can only be achieved if the commissions are managed transparently and accountably. The absence of an Executive Director for Legal and Corporate Services in the commission’s structure is a glaring omission that must be addressed.
“Experts have emphasized the need for checks and balances to ensure judicious expenditure of funds allocated to the commissions. The commissions must be shielded from politicians who seek to exploit them for personal gain. As Prof. Yusuf Zoaka noted, the development commissions can promote regional development, strengthen national unity, and decentralize power, but only if managed effectively,” he quoted
The FG, he went in has taken a step in the right direction by approving the creation of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development to oversee all regional development commissions, advising that the move is expected to enhance coordination and accountability among the commissions.
“Ultimately, the success of these development commissions hinges on the government’s ability to prevent corruption and ensure transparency in their operations. As analysts have pointed out, the commissions can be a game-changer for Nigeria’s development, but only if they are managed with integrity and accountability,” he stated categorically.
