Abia State Ombudsman tackles injustice, rights abuse, treats 39 complaints
The Abia State Ombudsman says it has upped the ante in tackling injustice and abuse of power in Abia State since its establishment, treating 39 complaints and petitions.
Justice Kyrian Nwankpa (Rtd), who heads the Commission, released the figures of treated cases in Umuahia.
He said it included allegations of rights violations, administrative delays, disputes involving civil and public servants, and disagreements between private individuals.
He advised victims of rights abuse to submit their written petitions to Abia Ombudsman office in Umuahia, assuring them that their complaints would not be ignored.
Justice Nwankpa (Rtd) who briefed journalists about the achievements of his office, said although not all cases have been fully resolved, recommendations have been forwarded to the appropriate agencies for action.
He described the Ombudsman as a “beacon for grassroots justice,” stressing that it provides a lifeline for ordinary citizens who might otherwise lack access to legal remedies.
Backed by the Abia State Ombudsman/Public Complaints Commission and Citizens’ Rights Commission Law 2025, he pointed out that the body serves as an independent channel for complaints against government agencies and officials.
He compared the commission to the United Nations in its pursuit of fairness for vulnerable groups and likened it to a small claims court for its accessibility, speed, and simplicity.
He further emphasised that while the Ombudsman does not handle criminal or conventional court cases, adding that it plays a vital role in building trust between government institutions and the people.
Justice Nwankpa also noted the commission, though not yet officially inaugurated, has remained effective but still requires the appointment of four additional Commissioners to strengthen it, even as he praised Governor Alex Otti for creating the institution.
Abia State Ombudsman tackles injustice, rights abuse, treats 39 complaints
