APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has cautioned the 34 newly elected local government chairmen in Katsina State against using public funds for personal gain. He delivered the warning on Monday during their swearing-in ceremony at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina.
Ganduje made it clear that financial autonomy does not give officials the right to mismanage resources. Instead, he emphasized that it demands greater responsibility and accountability to the people.
“This independence isn’t for self-promotion or enriching your families,” he said. “It’s a call to serve your communities with honesty and commitment.”
Be Present, Be Accountable
Ganduje criticized absentee leadership, urging chairmen to remain present at their duty posts, regardless of whether federal allocations have been released. According to him, leadership is a full-time job that requires continuous presence and action.
He praised Governor Dikko Umaru Radda for promising to release 100% of local government allocations. However, he stressed that every naira must be accounted for. The APC leader warned that thorough auditing and monitoring would follow.
“Expect checks and consequences,” Ganduje said. “You are free to initiate projects, but you must be focused, transparent, and dedicated to development.”
Radda Reaffirms Autonomy, Cracks Down on Misconduct
Governor Radda pledged full support for local government financial autonomy. He also set a firm tone by stating that his administration would not tolerate corruption, negligence, or incompetence.
“We will not accept any form of inefficiency,” he stated. “Chairmen must use public funds to uplift lives, not to serve personal interests.”
Radda urged all officials to lead with integrity and ensure their councils truly work for the people.
Focus on Local Priorities
To ensure grassroots development, Radda listed key areas the new chairmen must prioritize. These include education, healthcare, agriculture, security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
He called for unity between the state and local governments, stressing that collaboration would improve services and rebuild public trust.
“We must work together to restore dignity to local governance,” Radda concluded. “Our people deserve better, and we must deliver.”
