By Chinonso Alozie
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has revealed plans to create a Fiscal Responsibility Agency in the state. This announcement was made during a three-day South-East zonal retreat on Fiscal Responsibility in Owerri. The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Finance, stressed the importance of accountability and sustainability in governance, especially in a democratic system.
The aim of the retreat was to encourage Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to advocate for transparency and prudent financial management. The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission emphasized the need for academia to research the link between transparency, accountability, prudence, and economic development.
The Commission commended Imo State for hosting the event and outlined strategies to improve fiscal behavior in states. Fiscal responsibility legislation has been established in Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo States. The chairman also praised the publication of financial statements online by all South-East states, urging citizens to base decisions on evidence rather than hearsay.
Overall, the establishment of the Fiscal Responsibility Agency in Imo State signals a commitment to good governance and financial transparency for the benefit of the masses.