By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Kogi State’s Auditor General for Local Government, Hon. Yakubu Adabenege Siyaka, has urged the newly elected Local Government Chairmen, Directors of Local Government (DLG), and their Treasurers to follow in the footsteps of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo by prioritizing transparency, accountability, and good governance
Hon. Adabenege delivered this message on 12-11-2024 in Lokoja during a meeting with the newly elected officials. He emphasized the importance of financial discipline and adherence to financial instructions.
In his congratulatory address to the newly elected chairmen, Hon. Adabenege commended Gov. Ahmed Usman Ododo for upholding the will of the people. He noted that the meeting coincided with the local government autonomy granted by the Federal Government, a move that Kogi State had already implemented during the tenure of former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello.
Hon. Adabenege stressed the significance of financial responsibility and transparency, urging the local government officials to prioritize accountability and efficient fund utilization.
The Director for Audit Services highlighted the purpose of the meeting, which was to ensure that local governments manage their finances prudently and in compliance with established regulations. He emphasized the importance of adhering to financial guidelines to maintain transparency and accountability, essential components of good governance.
Participants were encouraged to leverage the benefits of local government autonomy to drive development and growth in the state. Hon. Adabenege emphasized the need for a harmonious relationship between the Chairmen and Civil Servants to facilitate effective governance.
The chairman of Yagba West who doubles as the ALGON chairman of the State Hon Olokun Tosin appreciated the Auditor General for Local Government for the robust engagement and promised to keep all the instructions given to them, stressing that the only way he could reciprocate the good work Gov Ahmed Usman Ododo is doing in his Local Government was to deliver good governance to his people.
The DLG Lokoja and the chairman of the Association of DLG and Treasurers of Kogi State, Mr Aliyu Musa also commended Hon Adabenege for his proactiveness noting that the State was not disappointed in their votes for Governor Ododo.
By conducting this meeting, Hon. Adabenege has demonstrated his commitment to promoting good governance and financial stewardship in the state.