RoLAC urges CSOs, media to champion implementation of Anambra anti-corruption strategy
Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) has charged Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and the media in Anambra State to play a more active role in the implementation of the state’s anti-corruption strategy.
The call was made during a one-day sensitization workshop on the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy (ANSACS 2024-2028) held in Awka, the state capital, Friday.
Organized by RoLAC as part of its support for the strategy’s implementation under the RoLAC II program, the workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration and partnerships towards promoting good governance and accountability in the state.
Speaking at the event, Coordinator of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC 2) programme in the state, Dr. Josephine Onah, explained that the group’s intention was to objectively critique the government, harmonize situations, and advocate for better approaches.
She said the meeting aimed to review progress, identify gaps, and plan new activities to promote awareness about the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy (ANSACS).
She emphasized the need to educate segments of society unfamiliar with the strategy, highlighting the organization’s vision for a more effective anti-corruption framework.
“The purpose of gathering Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and media was to build partnerships through networking and support the government in implementing change.
“We try to objectively critique the government to harmonize situations and advocate for alternative approaches. If done well, this will bring a fresh start for the state. That is our intention behind bringing this group together.
“The meeting is for us to take stock of what we have accomplished. Since the three-month work plan has elapsed, we are expected to identify new activities and build upon the ones we haven’t perfected,” she said.
RoLAC Lead Consultant, Professor Ada Chidi-Igbokwe, while introducing the objectives, noted that CSOs and the media play vital roles in ensuring government accountability. She noted that when the groups are proactive, the government is more likely to meet its obligations.
The chairman of the CSOs and Media Accountability and Anti-Corruption Initiative (CMAAI), Mrs Ugochi Freeman thanked RoLAC for convening the group and acknowledged the importance of collective efforts in promoting transparency and accountability in the State.
Freeman, who assured that the group will do more to intensify the drive against corruption in the state, emphasized the need for sustained efforts and collaboration among members to achieve tangible results.
“By working together, the group can effectively promote the objectives of the Anambra State Anti-Corruption Strategy and contribute to a more transparent and accountable governance system,” she said.
The workshop climaxed with group works and presentations.
