In a landmark move aimed at promoting regional equity and participatory democracy, Bishop Prof. Emeka Nwankpa, a distinguished clergyman and the Accord Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Abia State, has been appointed the National Leader of the South East Mandate for Good Governance (SEMGG).

The South East Mandate for Good Governance is a non-partisan movement committed to securing fair political representation and developmental opportunities for the South East region in the Nigerian federation. The group is built on the principles of equity, justice, and good governance, and is composed of civic leaders, political stakeholders, clergy, youth leaders, and community influencers.

The inaugural stakeholders’ meeting of SEMGG took place on Wednesday, bringing together delegates from all seventeen local government areas of Abia State. In attendance were representatives of major political parties, traditional rulers, religious bodies, women’s organisations, and civil society groups. The atmosphere was one of unity, dialogue, and determination to reposition the region in national affairs.

In his speech, Bishop Prof Nwankpa underscored the group’s inclusive and transformative mission.

‘This mandate is not about party politics; it is about the South East. It is about amplifying our voice and ensuring that we take our rightful place in Nigeria’s democratic evolution,’ he said.

The meeting featured panel discussions on regional development, governance reforms, youth participation, and interparty collaboration. It concluded with the adoption of a strategic framework to guide SEMGG’s activities in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

The emergence of Bishop Nwankpa as the convener and leader of the movement has been widely welcomed as a unifying step in the South East’s quest for political relevance, social justice, and accountable leadership.

Similar stakeholders’ meetings are to hold in the other southeast states in the days to come.