Lawrence Ndubeze, Awka
Tension flared at the Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum for the 2026 Budget in Anambra State when the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, engaged in a verbal exchange with the traditional ruler of Umueri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Igwe Benneth Emeka (Okebo II).
Trouble began when the Commissioner remarked on the need for greater involvement of Presidents-General of communities and traditional rulers in budget discussions, emphasizing that their roles should not be merely ceremonial.
“The beautiful aspect of this forum is bringing critical stakeholders together. But another question is: to what extent will their inputs be taken seriously?” Mefor asked.
“It is not just about bringing the traditional rulers here for decoration. I expected to see Presidents-General here because they are the ones who truly know the needs of the people,” he added.
He further stated that the government must align its priorities with the people’s needs to ensure inclusiveness and effective service delivery.
However, Igwe Emeka, visibly angered by Mefor’s comments, stood up and demanded a retraction, describing the remarks as disrespectful to the traditional institution.
“You were not here yesterday or early enough today, and Ndi Igwe have been making meaningful contributions.
“You cannot just come at the last minute and tell us we are used to decorate tables. I will be happy if you retract that statement, otherwise I will not take it lightly. You must not come here and insult the Igwes. Who are you?” he thundered.
The heated exchange was later calmed by the intervention of other monarchs and the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, allowing the session to continue.
Earlier, the traditional ruler of Olumbanasa, His Royal Highness Nwozokwe Okeke, had emphasized the importance of people-centered budgeting, calling for town hall meetings at the local government level to guide budget preparation.
He lamented that despite being on the throne for over 12 years, he had never attended a budget forum at the sub-state level, describing the current system as largely ceremonial.
“Because of the way things are done, the call circulars have become mere rituals. In some communities, PGs and Igwes rarely agree on projects. In such cases, decisions are often taken independently, and they do not always reflect the people’s needs,” he said.
He also urged the government to organize regular capacity-building workshops for civil servants to enhance creativity and technical competence in the budgeting process.
Similarly, the traditional ruler of Nawfia, Igwe Daniel Obelle, called on the state government to strengthen community security by fully implementing the Homeland Security Law and ensuring uniform training standards and adequate support for local security operatives.
In her remarks, Commissioner Nnake explained that about 70 percent of the state’s annual budget focuses on transformational projects that align with the governor’s priorities.
“The budget isn’t about volume; it’s about value,” she said.
“We prioritize major projects that people can see and benefit from. Repetitive budgets account for less than 20 percent. Our focus is on projects that have real impact on Ndi Anambra.”
She assured participants that the government is deliberate about ensuring that the budget works for the people and reflects their needs.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Chinyere Nwabachili, described the forum as crucial to clarifying roles and responsibilities in the budgeting process. She said stakeholder input would help prioritize community needs and strengthen democratic governance through collaboration and engagement toward a successful 2026 budget.
