Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi has sworn in 27 newly elected local government council chairmen, cautioning them against engaging in land, grazing, and forest reserves racketeering.
Governor Namadi emphasized that administration and power over these reserves rest solely with his office, warning the chairmen not to involve themselves in illegal allocation and sales. He directed them to relocate to their respective council headquarters, stressing the need for their presence to serve their communities effectively, according to Nigerian Tribune.
“All land, forest and grazing reserves administration and power belongs to governor, my jurisdiction. You didn’t have any authority, until I authoritise you on such matters,” Namadi said.
He also directed the LG bosses to relocate themselves and their families to the headquarters of their respective local councils, stressing: “This not the era of residing in Kano, Abuja or Dutse while you are the chairman of Buji, Guri or Kafin Hausa. You must stay in your area 24/7 as your attention is needed anytime.
“There is befitting local government council’s chairman resident in all the 27 local government area. Renovate it if it is in bad condition. But you most stay with your people in order to serve them very well. I will not tolerates abandoning your people for rampant and unnecessary travellings. Actions would be takes against any one, he added.
In a similar development, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has tasked newly elected local government chairmen to deepen democratic ideals and values among citizens.
Governor Alia urged the chairmen to entertain constructive criticisms, uphold high governance standards, and prioritize accountability, transparency, fairness, and honesty. He encouraged collaboration with stakeholders to foster inclusive governance, emphasizing leadership as service and sacrifice rather than personal gain.
Both governors emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and serving the people. The chairmen are expected to work diligently, provide strategic leadership, and address the needs of their communities.
The swearing-in ceremonies mark a new era for local governance in Jigawa and Benue states, with the governors setting clear expectations for the newly elected officials.
“To you the newly elected chairmen, as you step into these roles, I charge you on a mission of utmost importance. Your duties would require you to work diligently, to provide strategic leadership, and to uphold the highest standards of governance without fear or favour.
“This responsibility demands integrity, foresight, and a steadfast dedication to the principles of accountability, transparency, fairness and honesty in all their dealings.
“I must stress that no tier of government operates in isolation. Therefore, in light of the newly granted local government autonomy, I urge you to always collaborate with us at the state level in order to implement policies and programmes that benefit our rural communities.
“This is especially that we all share in the same vision of re-writing the narrative of our beloved state and country in general,’ Alia stated.
