Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has sworn in the newly elected chairmen of the state’s 17 local government areas.
The ceremony marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen democracy at the grassroots level.
In his address, Governor Buni praised the Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission for conducting a credible and transparent election that allowed all candidates and political parties to participate freely, according to the Independent.
He commended the commission for ensuring that no voter was disenfranchised during the electoral process.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to bringing government closer to the people through democratic governance at the local level.
He urged the newly sworn-in chairmen to work tirelessly to deliver quality services to their respective communities.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials, party leaders, and other stakeholders in the state.
The newly elected chairmen are expected to play a crucial role in driving development and growth in their respective LGAs.
“He commended the Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission for “organizing a credible, free, and fair exercise, allowing every candidate and political party to participate, and ensuring that no voter is disenfranchised.
“The political parties and their candidates offered choices to the voters to elect chairmen and Councillors of their choice. The people have spoken through their votes, and this event is to stamp the people’s authority in the election of the new chairmen and councilors for the 17 local government councils”.
“I, therefore, wish to commend all the political parties, the contestants, and their supporters for the spirit of sportsmanship demonstrated in the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections which recorded a massive turnout of voters, and whose results have been adjudged free, fair, and credible.
“This important and successful exercise is indeed a collective victory for the entire good people of the State, for which I have the honor to pleasantly rejoice with you all. Electoral victories are the function of better flag-bearers,
people-oriented policies and programs as well as vigorous campaigns
by parties and their candidates. Ours is no exception as we celebrate this victory today”.
“The overwhelming victory of the APC is a clear indication that it remains the most popular and liked party. I would like to congratulate the Chairman of all officials of the APC and the Critical Stakeholders for upholding internal democracy and producing credible candidates. I am optimistic that with such commitments and good organization, the APC will continue to wax stronger and win future elections at all levels with ease”.
“I wish to remind the Chairmen of the Local Government Councils that you are required to key into our administration’s development agenda, providing empowerment opportunities to youth, women, and vulnerable persons, and improving on internally generated revenue”.
“You are also advised to Promote transparency and accountability in handling local government finances, assets, and equipment.
Ensure government properties are always reflected in
Handing and taking over notes.
Maintain Contract Register to facilitate monitoring
and evaluation, levels/stages of work, and its
corresponding expenditure. Improve the provision of basic facilities
and services such as security, water supply, sanitation, healthcare
delivery, and agriculture, among others. Partner Federal and State
Governments in implementing programs initiated by the federal, state, or both”.
He further explained that “As you are all aware, we are sustaining our gains in the security sector. On this note, I would like to once again stress my appeal to the entire people of Yobe State to continue to support and cooperate with the government and the security agencies.
“Before I conclude this address, l wish to commend the security operatives for maintaining law and order during the exercise. It is gratifying that the good people of our dear state have kept to the tradition of peaceful electioneering that we are known for. You have indeed made us proud”.