Corruption not tolerated under my watch, Katsina gov tells LG chairmen
Katsina State on Monday swore in the newly elected chairmen of the 34 local government areas.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, in Katsina, the State Governor, Dikko Radda, warned that his administration will leave no stone unturned if anyone is found guilty of corruption.
“Corruption, inefficiency, and negligence will not be tolerated under my watch”, he said.
According to Radda, people’s expectations are high considering that the local government is the closest link between the government and the people.
“Your election is the testament of confidence reposed in you by the good people of your respective local government areas.
“Today marks the beginning of the new chapter of grassroots governance in Katsina State. As leaders of various local government councils, you are now at the forefront of delivery development, promoting peace and fostering unity within your communities.
“The expectations are high because the local government is the closest link between the government and the people.
“I want to assure the people of Katsina State that our government is committed to implementing Local Government autonomy in all its ramifications across the 34 LGAs of the State.
According to him, the state has created a new department in the ministry for local government which will be headed by the Special Adviser in charge of inspectorate matters in order to enhance restructuring for effective performance and efficient preservation of local government resources.
“Therefore, you are being entrusted with the kind duties of ensuring that no community is left behind in our collective much-worth progress from rural infrastructure to education, health care, agriculture, water and sanitation, and security, and your role cannot be overstated.
“The newly elected chairmen, let me remind you that you have come into office at a time when Katsina State faces both challenges and opportunities. Our State has only been known for its rich cultural heritage, resilient spirits, and abundant human and natural resources,” he said.
However, he said, they must acknowledge that there are gaps that need to be built on for the development of their various local governments.
“I urge all of you to approach your responsibility with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Remember, public service is not about personal gain but about serving the greater good of every kobo allocated to your council. Be judicious in utilizing projects that will uplift the living standard of your people.
“We must work together to restore the dignity of our local government system,” Radda noted.
He assured them of his administration’s unwavering support, noting that it remains committed to strengthening collaboration between the State and local government councils.
Radda further said, “In line with this commitment, we will continue to provide the necessary guidance, technical assistance, and financial allocation to enable you to execute your mandate effectively. But let me emphasise that partnership works both ways when the State government will fulfil its obligations, I expect nothing less than excellent from you in return”.
He challenged them to key into education and youth empowerment, saying investing in educational facilities and programmes, collaborating closely with security agencies, traditional, religious institutions, and maintaining law and order will go a long way in the development of their local governments.
On his part, the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressive Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje charged the newly sworn-in LGAs chairmen to be prudent in their dealings urging them to follow the footsteps of the governor.
“Follow your governor’s footsteps because he is not a governor that squandered public funds,” Ganduje said.
Ganduje further said, “My dear colleagues, local government chairmen, I am congratulating you for the independence of the local government, especially in terms of finances.
“I also congratulate you because you have a governor who believes in the independence of the local governments, who believes in the effective management of our local governments,” he said.
