Kaduna: 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.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Governor Sani emphasized the importance of financial autonomy for the local government Chairmen, stressing that their allocations from the federation account will be public knowledge, necessitating transparency and accountability. He urged them to be available, accessible, responsive, and fair in their dealings as grassroots leaders who are closest to the people.
The Governor highlighted the need for the Chairmen to listen to the concerns of their communities, address their fears, and harness their potentials. He urged them to emp
ower people to participate in governance and ensure their voices are heard, quoting Robert W. Flack: “Local government is the foundation of democracy; if it fails, democracy will fail.”
Governor Sani further tasked the Chairmen with the responsibility of upgrading health centers, providing rural infrastructure, boosting agriculture, building and upgrading health centers and primary schools, enhancing economic and social services, and ensuring sustainable natural resource use. He encouraged them to align with the state government’s rural transformation agenda and connect communities not covered by state roads.
During the ceremony, Governor Sani reminded the Chairmen of the feedback received during their campaigns, urging them to prioritize community needs guided by the principles of equity, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. He emphasized the critical nature of the time they are assuming office, a period when the people expect a great deal from politicians and leaders, stressing the importance of
restoring faith in politics and local governance.
While congratulating the Chairmen, the Governor also urged residents to hold their leaders accountable, demand transparency, participate in the budgeting process, and insist on quality service delivery.