By Nnasom David

The 2023 Imo State governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Hon. Uche Ben Odunzeh, has called on the Nigerian Justice Department to ensure fairness and urgency in the ongoing trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Odunzeh made this call while addressing the rising insecurity in the Southeast, particularly in Imo State, which he believes is partly fueled by the prolonged detention of the separatist leader.

He warned that some youths are exploiting the unrest to perpetrate violence and destruction across the region.

“The renewed killings and destruction of properties in Southeast Nigeria are concerning, and this can be traced to the continued imprisonment of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Odunzeh said. “It would be good for the Nigerian Justice Department to be fair and timely in handling his matter.”

The real estate magnate and Chairman/CEO of EUC Homes Ltd emphasized the importance of peace and stability for economic growth in the region, asserting that the Southeast is poised for development if insecurity is curbed.

“We need peace and harmony to enable the Southeast economy to grow substantially. Right now, insecurity is stalling momentum,” he added.

Odunzeh, known for his youth empowerment initiatives, also revealed plans to expand his free Real Estate Academy and recruitment reward scheme to the Southeast, aiming to equip young people with entrepreneurial skills and financial independence.

“At EUC Homes, we have trained and empowered thousands of youths over the last decade to be self-reliant, creating numerous real estate entrepreneurs through our real estate school and empowerment programs. That is what we intend to replicate in the Southeast,” he explained.

He noted that the ongoing recruitment program by EUC Homes, which includes weekly cash rewards, has significantly boosted the financial standing of participating youths and fostered productivity.