The Southeast Youth Network (SEYN) has intensified its call for transparency and fiscal accountability following recent developments surrounding the budget of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
The controversy stems from reports that the Commission’s proposed 2026 budget stands at ₦140 billion, alongside a proposed ₦25 billion increase. According to public statements credited to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Chairman of the Senate Committee overseeing the SEDC, the ₦25 billion augmentation was a recommendation of the Senate Committee and not an initiative of the five Southeast governors, a clarification that has generated debate about the origin and ownership of the increase.
In a related development, the Senate reportedly issued a stern warning to the Commission over fund management, signaling concerns within the legislature about fiscal discipline and oversight as the Commission prepares to operationalize major allocations.
Responding to the reports, SEYN said the unfolding situation highlights the need for “clear ownership, transparent budgeting, and measurable deliverables.”
In a statement released in Abuja, the youth network acknowledged that increased funding for the Southeast could represent an opportunity to address longstanding infrastructure deficits and economic challenges. However, it stressed that the focus must remain on implementation transparency.
“The issue is not whether funds are increased,” the statement read. “The issue is whether those funds will translate into roads completed, power improved, industries supported, and youth employment created.”
SEYN is calling on the SEDC to:
- Publish a detailed breakdown of its ₦140 billion budget proposal.
- Clarify the structure and intended use of the additional ₦25 billion augmentation.
- Provide project timelines and state-by-state allocation mapping.
- Establish a public reporting mechanism for quarterly updates on fund disbursement and project execution.
The Network noted that legislative warnings over fund management underscore the importance of preventive accountability mechanisms rather than reactive investigations.
The South East Development Commission was established to address developmental imbalances and infrastructure gaps in the region. Observers say its performance in the early budget cycles will shape public confidence in the institution.
SEYN emphasized that the Southeast has faced persistent infrastructure and economic challenges, and that the Commission represents a significant federal intervention mechanism. However, it cautioned against replicating past patterns where public development funds failed to deliver tangible results.
While maintaining that it is not aligned with any political bloc, SEYN said it would monitor developments closely and engage constructively with stakeholders.
“We support development funding,” the Network stated. “But public trust depends on transparency, competitive procurement, and visible outcomes.”
The group further urged the National Assembly, Southeast governors, and relevant oversight agencies to ensure that the Commission operates within strict financial governance standards.
As budget deliberations continue, SEYN says it will push for structured civic monitoring initiatives to ensure that allocations intended for regional development translate into measurable improvements across the Southeast.