The Enugu State House of Assembly has passed a bill to establish the Enugu State Anti-Corruption and Transparency Commission.
The bill, House Bill No. 5, 2025, passed Tuesday, April 15, started with the first reading last week.
Leader of the House, Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, explained the bill’s importance. He said, “This Commission will investigate all financial crimes involving individuals or government agencies. Enugu State having their own Anti-Corruption agency will be a better thing for the state.”
Aniagu noted that while the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) fights corruption nationwide, a state-owned agency would focus on local issues. He added that recovered funds and assets would benefit the state directly.
Princess Obiajulu Ugwu, representing Enugu South Rural, suggested periodic asset declarations for Commission members to ensure transparency.
“There should be a periodic declaration of assets and liability of the members of the Commission to ascertain when they corruptly enrich themselves,” she said.
Support from Other Lawmakers
Hon. Williams Amuka of Igbo-Etiti West emphasized the need for a state agency. He said, “So many corrupt practices are going on in the state but they are reported to EFCC, and because they are not reported, actions are hardly taken. Establishing the agency is going to reduce any form of pilfering.”
Hon. Anthony Okey Mbah of Nkanu East added that the Commission would encourage office holders to use public funds responsibly.
He said, “The Commission would serve as a wake-up call to office holders to make sure that monies are spent judiciously for the purpose they are meant.”
After extensive debate, the bill passed its second and third readings and was subsequently passed. Lawmakers believe the Commission will strengthen accountability and reduce corruption in the state.
The bill awaits the executive endorsement of Gov. Peter Mbha to become law.
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