By Karen James
Awka, Anambra State – In a significant stride towards the forthcoming local government elections, the Anambra Assembly confirmed the members of the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) during its plenary session on Wednesday. The decision lays the foundation for Governor Chukwuma Soludo to conduct the much-anticipated local government elections as promised.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Screening and Election Matters, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye, delivered a report during the session, recounting the committee’s engagement with the ANSIEC members. Okoye affirmed that the answers they received during the interaction were satisfactory. Consequently, the Deputy Speaker and other committee members recommended that the ANSIEC members undergo screening and confirmation.
The ANSIEC members, led by Chairman Magistrate Chinelo Genevieve Osakwe, appeared before the 8th Assembly during the plenary session for consideration and were subsequently confirmed as members of the Commission. The confirmed members include Magistrate Chinelo Genevieve Osakwe as Chairman, alongside Mrs. Bernadine Obande, Barr. Osita Cyril Igbokwe, Sir Chinedu Anthony Nnalue, Mrs. Helen Ifeyinwa Umeh, and Mr. John Emeka Okeke.
Following the confirmation, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, the Speaker of the Anambra Assembly, extended congratulations to the newly confirmed Chairman and members of ANSIEC. He emphasized that their confirmation empowers Governor Chukwuma Soludo to fulfill his commitment to conducting a transparent and credible local government election.
Drawing attention to the collective aspirations of the people of Anambra, Speaker Udeze reminded the ANSIEC members of their origin as indigenes of the state. He encouraged them to seize this opportunity to deliver exceptional service to their fellow citizens. Udeze stressed the high expectations placed upon their shoulders and urged them to approach their responsibilities with unwavering dedication and commitment. The Speaker assured the ANSIEC members that the Anambra State House of Assembly was ready to provide legislative support to ensure the best outcome for the people.
In response, Chairman Magistrate Chinelo Genevieve Osakwe expressed gratitude for the confirmation and expressed a firm commitment to meet the expectations entrusted to them. She assured the Assembly that the ANSIEC members would give their utmost to deliver a free and fair election, promising not to disappoint the people of Anambra.
The plenary session adjourned, with plans to reconvene on Tuesday, August 6th, to address further matters related to the upcoming local government elections.
With the confirmation of the ANSIEC Chairman and members, the foundations for a successful local government election in Anambra State are solidified. The people of Anambra rightfully anticipate an election that truly represents their collective will.
