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By Madu Obi
The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) has launched the Civil Society Organisation and Media Accountability and Anti-Corruption Network in Anambra State to strengthen anti-corruption battle.
The network is being funded by the European Union, EU, and implemented in Nigeria by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IIDEA).
RoLAC’s State Project Coordinator, Mrs. Josephine Onah, said the initiative aims to amplify citizens voices, monitor government operations, advocate for policy reforms, and enhance public awareness of corruption issues.
Highlighting the importance of the coalition, Onah said it would help to combat endemic corruption within public institutions.
According to her, the network would provide independent monitoring and oversight of government operations, as well as harness the collective power of civil society, advocate for policy reforms, and mobilize citizens to enhance public awareness and education on anti-corruption issues.
She said: “We are committed to activating every measure that enables accountability and transparency in governance. Corruption is a significant issue in the country, eroding and depleting our common wealth.
The CSO and media accountability platform is being set up to address corruption, which has become endemic in government.
To achieve our goals, we need a platform of civil society and media that can amplify citizens’ voices and champion the fight against corruption. The results from reform may feel like a drop in the ocean, but with consistency, we can improve our current realities.
This approach aims to activate service delivery windows in various MDAs to enhance their effectiveness. RoLAC has engaged with the state to commence service delivery initiatives in six model LGAs and three health facilities under the Ministry of Health. This is a crucial area where the oversight and monitoring of CSOs and media partners will be significant".
The Head of Service of Anambra State, Barrister Theodora Igwegbe, represented by Barrister Tessy Obuekwe, expressed support for the initiative and welcomed the contributions of the network in complementing the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
“The Head of Service is pleased with this gathering, which is for the development of the state. She extends her gratitude to RoLAC and International IDEA. The goal is to eradicate or at least minimize corruption in our system, benefiting all citizens," she said.
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