Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has advised the elected Local government Chairmen to distribute dividends of democracy equitably, without prejudice to political affiliation, gender, religious beliefs or ethnic background.
The Governor who gave the advice at the swearing in ceremony of the Chairmen at the Council Chambers of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna enjoined them to be transparent and accountable in the handling of public finances.
“You are taking charge as captains of government has been granted financial autonomy. Your allocation from the federation account will be public knowledge, necessitating transparency and accountability. Be available, accessible, responsive and fair in your dealings,’’ he stressed.
According to him, Local government Chairmen are grassroot leaders who are closest to the people, so they should be the people’s voices, advocates, and champions.
‘’Listen to their concerns, address their fears, and harness their potentials. Empower the people to participate in governance and ensure their voices are heard. In the words of Robert W. Flack: “Local government is the foundation of democracy; if it fails, democracy will fail.”
Upgrade Health Centers
The Governor implored the Chairmen to provide rural infrastructure, boost agriculture, build and upgrade health centers and primary schools, enhance economic and social services and ensure sustainable natural resource use.
Governor Sani also enjoined them to align with the state government’s rural transformation agenda and link up communities not covered by state roads.
‘’During your campaigns, you engaged with communities, listened to their concerns, and received feedbacks on their needs. I charge you to prioritize these needs, guided by the principles of equity, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability.
“You are assuming office at a critical time when our people expect a great deal from politicians and leaders. It is your responsibility to restore their faith in politics and local governance,’’ he reminded.
While congratulating the Chairmen, he urged residents to hold their leaders accountable, demand transparency, participate in the budgeting process, and insist on quality service delivery.
Lateefah Ibrahim
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