ANAMBRA ASSEMBLY PASSES PEACE BUILDING AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AGENCY BILL

REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE

The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a bill to establish the Anambra State Peace Building and Conflict Management Agency and for other related matters 2024.

The bill was passed after extensive amendments and corrections were made by the law makers at the committee of the whole.

The bill aims to foster peace and manage conflicts within the state as well as provide a harmonious environment for the residents.

The Speaker of the House, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, who presided over the plenary, said the bill would play a crucial role in preventing conflicts in the state.

The sponsor of the bill and member representing Njikoka Constituency II, Dr. Jude Akpua, said the bill was of paramount importance as it would resolve conflicts in families, communities and all aspects of human life.

He expressed regret that minor conflicts had forced many people to lavish in Correctional Centres but stressed that with the bill, there would be less litigation in courts and reduction of inmates in correctional centre.

Dr. Akpua, who is the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, said that the agency when established would be saddled with th promotion of peace and conflict resolution through proactive measures, such as identification of potential sources of conflict, mediation and negotiation efforts.

The agency will also have the responsibility of the implementation of peace building initiatives across various communities, including land matters in Anambra State.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU