A milestone anti-corruption bill for the establishment of the Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency has successfully passed through the third reading in the State House of Assembly, marking a significant progress in the State’s anti-corruption efforts.
The bill, which was sponsored and championed by the Majority Leader of the assembly, Hon. Suleiman Abdulrazak Sariki, has now moved to the committee level for further consultations with key stakeholders.Hon. Suleiman Abdulrazak Sariki, the sponsor of the bill and a dedicated Member representing Okene 1 State Constituency, emphasized the transformative impact of the legislation”The passage of this anti-graft bill underscores our commitment to fostering accountability and integrity in Kogi State. By establishing the Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency, we are taking a crucial step towards enhancing transparency and combating corrupt practices.”Reflecting on the significance of the bill, Hon. Sariki highlighted the complementary role of the agency vis-a-vis existing anti-corruption bodies.
“The establishment of the Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency is not intended to replicate the efforts of agencies like the Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) but rather to bolster their work through closer collaboration and localized focus on addressing corruption within our State.”Rt. Hon. Umar Yusuf, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, commended the proactive stance of the lawmakers in advancing the anti-graft bill:”The passage of this bill is a testament to our unwavering dedication to upholding the values of transparency and accountability in governance.
With the impending establishment of the Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency, we are poised to strengthen our oversight functions and promote ethical conduct in public service.”Following the successful third reading, the bill has been forwarded to the House committee on Judiciary and Legal Matters for thorough scrutiny and consultation with stakeholders. The collaborative efforts of legislators, civil society groups, and the public have been instrumental in shaping the bill and ensuring its alignment with the State’s anti-corruption objectives.The progress of the anti-graft bill in the State Assembly reflects a significant step forward in Kogi State’s anti-corruption agenda and reinforces the commitment of lawmakers to fostering good governance and accountability.
