(DDM) – The Anambra State House of Assembly has officially passed a bill establishing the Anambra State Public Complaints, Anti-Corruption Commission, and Financial Crimes, signaling a major step toward enforcing accountability and transparency in the state’s management of public resources.
DDM notes that the legislation was prompted by mounting concerns over the need for a dedicated state-level body to handle complaints, financial crimes, and corruption-related issues involving government assets and finances.
Lawmakers said the move was designed to consolidate oversight responsibilities and improve the efficiency of investigations across the state’s public sector.
The bill was approved on Thursday during plenary at the assembly complex in Awka, following the completion of amendments at the Committee of the Whole stage.
Key figures in the legislative process included Majority Leader Ikenna Ofodeme, who moved the motion for the third reading of the bill, and Deputy Minority Leader Nobel Igwe, who seconded it.
Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze presided over the session, commending the joint committee for its thorough review and refinement of the legislation prior to final passage.
During a voice vote, Udeze announced that the bill received unanimous approval from members and revealed that the law will take effect on February 17. The newly established commission will assume responsibility for investigating financial crimes and corruption-related cases tied to the finances and assets of the Anambra State Government.
The Speaker explained that the commission will take over such investigations from other agencies within the state, serving as the central authority for managing corruption-related cases under its jurisdiction.
He added that the law mandates the commission to submit periodic reports on its activities to both the Office of the Governor and the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Udeze highlighted that the legislation contains safeguards to protect residents and indigenes from arbitrary or unjust administrative actions, with special attention given to examining any conduct that appears to violate existing laws and regulations.
The passage of the bill, lawmakers said, underscores the Assembly’s commitment to promoting good governance and accountability, while also strengthening public trust in the state’s anti-corruption efforts.
Officials expressed confidence that the commission would operate within the bounds of the law and provide an effective mechanism to curb financial crimes, enhance transparency, and ensure the responsible management of public resources in Anambra State.
The new law represents a significant milestone in the state’s legislative agenda to address corruption, improve public sector efficiency, and guarantee that citizens’ rights are protected in the course of investigations.
