The Abia State Government has officially launched a Monitoring and Evaluation Committee focused on the state’s strategy for accountability, integrity, and anti-corruption, known as ABSIAS. During the Friday inauguration, Head of Service Benson Ojeikere tasked the diverse group—which includes journalists, legal professionals, civil servants, and civil society representatives—to lead the initiative.
Represented by Ukeje Uche Ukpabi, Ojeikere emphasized that members must operate without bias. Their primary duty involves overseeing project progress, pinpointing obstacles, and verifying that all public programs align with state anti-corruption regulations.
Professor Ada-Chidi Igbokwe, the lead consultant for the Rule of Law and Anti-corruption Program (ROLAC), noted that the committee exists to fortify public sector integrity. She pointed out that many national policies fail because they lack proper enforcement. Supporting this, ROLAC’s state coordinator, Peter Omenka, instructed the committee to compile data from anti-corruption units in various ministries and agencies. These reports are expected to increase accountability and improve justice access for vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, women, and children.