The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed the *Traditional Rulers’ Amendment No. 2 Bill, 2024*, following its second and third readings during a plenary session held today.
The bill, aimed at further amending the *Traditional Rulers’ Law, 2007*, was championed by the Deputy Majority Leader, Dr. Jude Akpua. It seeks to strengthen the State’s Traditional Rulers Council and improve its governance framework.
Key provisions of the amendment include the establishment of the council with equal representation from Anambra’s three senatorial zones, selected through government recognition and approval by the Governor. The Governor will appoint the council’s chairman on a rotational basis for a three-year term, with a possible one-year extension under exceptional circumstances.
Additionally, three vice-chairmen, representing each senatorial zone, will be designated as zonal council chairmen, each serving a non-renewable three-year term.
Speaking on the bill, Dr. Akpua, who represents Njikoka Constituency Two, emphasized that the legislation would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the council in collaborating with the state government. Similarly, Sir Ejike Okechukwu, representing Anaocha Constituency Two, highlighted the bill’s focus on expanding and restructuring the council for better representation and inclusivity.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, read the bill for the second and third times before its passage. The law is set to take effect on December 20, 2024, pending the Governor’s assent.
