CSO, media accountability network sets up directorates to tackle corruption in Anambra

Lawrence Nwimo, Awka

A collaborative network of Civil Society Organizations and Media professionals, known as the Civil Society, Media Accountability, and Anti-Corruption Initiative (CSMAI), has set up directorates focused on strengthening governance and combating corruption in Anambra State.

CSMAI, a programme of Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (RoLAC) Phase II, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA), was established on August 24h, 2024 to amplify citizens’ voices, provide independent monitoring of government operations, advocate for policy reforms, and enhance public awareness on anti-corruption issues.

During a virtual inaugural meeting presided over by the Team Lead Ugochi Freeman, the group emphasized their commitment to collaborating with other local and international organizations to reduce corruption in Anambra State.

At the meeting, directorates, including Media and Publicity, Policy and Strategy, Monitoring and Evaluation, Linkages and Partnerships, Secretariat, and ICT, were established to work collaboratively on implementing 3-month action plans and possibly extending them to one year.

The action plans adopted at the programme detailed timelines, including various means they hoped to combat crimes in the State like increased advocacy to relevant ministries, departments, agencies and stakeholders.

Freeman announced that on December 9, 2024, the group would celebrate World Day against Anti-corruption with a walk and symposium, in partnership with various organizations, to promote anti-corruption policies through media campaigns and public enlightenment efforts.

Commending the State Coordinator of RoLAC, Mrs Josephine Onah for her drives to eliminate corruption in Anambra, Freeman called on all stakeholders to support the Network in its effort to enthrone transparency.

Ikengaonline reports that the meeting also resolved to complement the Anambra State Government’s anti-corruption initiatives, including the Anti-Corruption Committee and Service Delivery Transparency Initiative, to eradicate corruption and improve service delivery.

Other highlight of the meeting were unveiling of the interim committee of the network led by Ugochi Freeman who is also representing CSO together with Samuel Ololo; Ugochukwu Okeke representing people with disabilities (PWDs) and Alfred Ajayi and Ify Unachukwu representing the media.