BY RITA OYIBOKA
The Delta State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, Hon Pat Ajudua, has cautioned Community Development Associations (CDAs) against working in isolation of the people and traditional rulers, urging synergy for harmony and meaningful development.
She made this appeal during a sensitisation programme for CDA executives in Warri. The event brought together traditional rulers, President-Generals (PGs), secretaries, women leaders, and other key community figures to discuss the implementation of the State Regulation of Community Development Association Law 2021.
Ajudua commended the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for its commitment to community development, particularly through the enactment of the law.
She outlined key provisions of the law, saying, “Under the law, CDAs must inform the Ministry of Women Affairs six months before conducting elections, with voting taking place three months before the current leadership’s tenure expires.
‘’The ministry will oversee the process to ensure transparency and newly elected executives must obtain a certificate of recognition from the government before assuming office. Failure to comply attracts a ₦500,000 fine or a two-year prison sentence.”
Ajudua further emphasised the need for Community Development Associations (CDAs) to work closely with both the people and the traditional rulers of their respective communities.
According to her, “CDAs should not operate in isolation. They must collaborate with the monarch and the people to ensure inclusive development. When resources or royalties come into the community, they should be distributed fairly so that everyone benefits. Proper management of resources will ensure harmony and progress.”
Speaking with newsmen after the event, the President-General of Evwreni Kingdom, Chief Kenneth Ukpebitere, lauded the initiative, describing it as a vital step towards improving governance at the community level.
“Many of our communities have constitutions, but their implementation is often flawed. This programme will help us return and educate our people on proper operational practices,” he said.
