Imo State chapter of Open Government Partnership (OGP) joins the rest of the world in marking the Global OGP Week. Recognizing the significant contributions the initiative has made in area of deepening accountability and transparency in public sector, Imo OGP wishes to congratulate all the stakeholders - government, civil society and private sectors that championed the initiative.
On the occasion of this Week celebration of the global initiative, we call on the Imo State governor, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to fulfill the commitment he made on assumption of office in 2020 that he would comply with the principles of OGP. Imo State government signed onto OGP principles in August 2019 but is yet to implement the OGP principles and processs - set up a multi-stakeholders forum comprising government and civil society, develop a State Action Plan and collaboratively work with citizens and professional groups for its implementation.
As advocates of transparency, accountability, citizen participation, and inclusive governance, we believe that the principles of OGP remain critical to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting public trust, and ensuring sustainable development in Imo State.
While acknowledging efforts made so far, we urge the State Government to demonstrate stronger political will by revitalizing the OGP process through active stakeholder engagement, improved access to public information, fiscal transparency, and citizens’ participation in governance processes.
OGP Week is a global initiative led by the Open Government Partnership (OGP) that presents an important opportunity that brings together governments, civil society organizations and citizens to reflect on progress made and renew commitments towards building open, transparent, and accountable institutions that work for the people.
We therefore encourage Imo State government to collaborate more effectively with civil society groups; non governmental organizations, youth groups, women-led organizations, the media, and development partners in advancing the ideals of OGP in the State. This will be achieved by constituting a Steering Committee comprising members of the government, civil society and organised private sector to activate the structure of OGP in the state.
Imo OGP remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote openness, good governance, accountability, and meaningful citizen engagement for the benefit of all people of Imo State.
Basil Ejigini
OGP coordinator
Imo State
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