The CSOs/Media Accountability and Anti-corruption Initiative (CMAAI) has commended the Anambra House of Assembly for passing the Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission Bill.
The landmark legislation, when signed into law by the Governor will establish a state agency to prosecute financial crimes and address public grievances, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
The statement signed by the CMAAI Coordinator, Ugochi Freeman and Assistant Coordinator, Alfred Ajayi, appreciated the Speaker, Somtochukwu Udeze, and all the lawmakers for their commitment to good governance as demonstrated in the eventual passage of the bill after a long time of advocacy.
The statement reads, “The diligence of the House committee on Finance led by Sir Ejike Okechukwu and the Committee on Public Accounts led by Hon. Noble Igwe, in scrutinizing the bill is duly commended.
“CMAAI also glowingly acknowledge the relentless intervention of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme for supporting the Anti-corruption Steering Committee from the drafting to the passage of the bill.
“The contribution of CMAAI members (both civil society and media actors) deserves a special mention as they sustained advocacy efforts until the bill was finally passed.
The statement notes that when assented to by the Governor, the law will benefit the state by enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
“It will also providing citizens the platform to lodge complaints against administrative injustice.
“The law will enable Anambra state to directly recover assets acquired through corrupt practices and further promote ease of doing business.
“We are delighted that Anambra state has joined the likes of Kano and Lagos states in setting the pace for other sub-national governments.
The group appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to expedite the assent process and ensure effective implementation.
