The Ombudsman to the Abia State Governor, Hon. Justice Kyrian Nwankpa (Rtd) has called on the public to make good use of the existence of the establishment to report any violation of right or abuse of power by public office holders.
Briefing Journalists at Government House Umuahia, Justice Nwankpa explained that the independent establishment is tasked with investigating complaints against government agencies and ensuring fair treatment of citizens by public authorities.
He noted that the Office of the Ombudsman would undertake several key duties to fulfill its mandate including; addressing Public grievances where citizens would have an avenue to lodge complaints regarding government services, administrative decisions, or any other issues they encounter within the public sector.
Justice Nwankpa added that the Ombudsman, created on the 19th of Sept 2023, by Governor Alex Ott, would have the authority to investigate allegations of misconduct or maladministration within government agencies in cases of corruption, abuse of power, or negligence in the discharge of duties.
“In governance, highly placed public officials can trample on the right of vulnerable citizens who cannot even afford the wherewithall to redress such violations of their rights.
“The advantage for them is that provided they are sure of what they are reporting, because the Ombudsman will not just recieve report and start acting. There should be discreet and diligent investigation. When that is done, it would become the duty of the Ombudsman to ensure that such violations of someone’s right or even acquisition of somebody’s property can be redressed and appropriate actions taken.
“The essence is that the public have avenues to report any misdeeds , violation of rights or abuse of office by government officials”, Justice Nwankpa added.
He further emphasized that the creation of the Office of the Ombudsman underscores the present administration’s commitment to good governance and responsiveness to the needs of the citizens, noting that providing a mechanism for addressing grievances and ensuring accountability, would build trust between the government and the people.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma disclosed that the office would operate from the premises of Aguiyi Ironsi Conference center.
Ferdinand Ekeoma
Mr Ekeoma, said the to move to establish the office of the Ombudsman by the Abia State government reflects it’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting citizen participation in governance.
He said that the office of the Ombudsman is currently accepting complaints from individuals, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders and added that residents of Abia State can look forward to a more accountable and responsive administration.
