REGISTER COMPLAINTS AGAINST VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS BY ANY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL FOR REDRESS — ABIA OMBUDSMAN ASSURES RESIDENTS

REPORTER: PEACE AGBO

Abia State residents have been advised to make judicious use of the public complaints office in the state tagged “Ombudsman to the Governor.”

Residents of the state are expected to register complaints against violation of their human rights by any government to the Ombudsman official for fair hearing and redress.

The Ombudsman to the Governor, Justice Kyrian Nwankpa (Rtd), gave the advice at the Government House, Umuahia while speaking with journalists on the operation of the office in the state.

Justice Nwankpa said Governor Alex Otti established the public complaints office to enable him receive complaints from the citizens about violations of their human rights.

He described his office as an innovation by Governor Otti designed to make the right impact on Abia State people and pledged to fulfill the purpose of establishing the office.

According to the Ombudsman, his office is already handling some complaints brought before it, saying recommendations will be made to the Governor after investigations.

For his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ekeoma, explained that the office would be operating from the premises of Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia.

Mr. Ekeoma noted that the essence of establishing the office of the Ombudsman by the Abia State Government was to reflect its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting citizen participation in governance.

He maintained that Abia State residents could look forward to a more accountable and responsive government.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU