BY RITA OYIBOKA
THE Delta State Government, has re-affirmed its commitment to strengthening grassroots governance through the effective implementation of the State Regulation of Community Development Association Law 2021.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua highlighted its significance in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance within Community Development Associations (CDAs), during a sensitisation campaign at Prof. Chike edozien Secretariat in Asaba.
The event gathered traditional rulers, President Generals, secretaries, women leaders, and other key stakeholders to educate them on the law’s provisions and their roles in enhancing community progress.
Speaking at the occasion, Ajudua commended the state government under the leadership of Rt. Hon Sherrif Oborevwori for the “unwavering support and visionary leadership in promoting community development” especially with the enactment of the law.
“CDAs play a vital role in community progress, but the absence of regulation has led to abuse, mismanagement, and conflicts. Issues such as sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), child scavenging, and female genital mutilation persist in our communities. We need your support as watchdogs to combat these challenges,” she said.
The Commissioner noted that under the law, CDAs must inform the Ministry of Women Affairs six months before elections, with voting held three months before the current leadership’s tenure expires.
According to her, “The ministry will oversee the process, and newly elected executives must obtain government-issued certificates of recognition before assuming office. Non-compliance attracts a ₦500,000 fine or a two-year prison term. Leadership must rotate among families, clans, villages, or quarters, with a maximum three-year tenure, renewable once if re-elected. Parallel associations will not be recognised, and all CDAs must register with the Ministry of Women Affairs after obtaining CAC incorporation.”
Reacting, Women’s Leader of the Asaba Development Union Worldwide, Hon. Josephine Azinge expressed optimism about the campaign’s impact, calling for regular sensitisation programmes.
“Many people in rural areas are unaware of these laws, which often leads to violations. We have gained valuable insights, and we will take this knowledge back to our communities. I strongly recommend that events like this be held at least once or twice a year,” she said.
Similarly, the President-General of Onicha-Olona Development Association, Mr. Patrick Ejidoh, welcomed the sensitisation programme, emphasising its importance in educating communities about the law.
“Many communities were unaware of these regulations. This kind of engagement should become a regular occurrence so that the law is fully understood and implemented for the benefit of our communities and the state,” he noted.
