Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has issued a stern warning to local government chairmen in the state, cautioning them against financial misappropriation and negligence of duty. Speaking at a two-day workshop on ‘Responsive Local Government Leadership for Effective Local Government Administration in Benue State,’ Governor Alia emphasized the importance of accountability, integrity, and transparency in governance.
Governor Alia urged the council chairmen to prioritize the welfare of their people and refrain from treating Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) or taxes as personal funds. He reminded them of their social contract with the people and the need to align their actions with the interests of the community.
Furthermore, Governor Alia highlighted the scrutiny they face, emphasizing the vigilance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in monitoring their activities. He urged the chairmen to be diligent, proactive, and committed to delivering impactful governance to the grassroots level.
Additionally, the Special Adviser on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dennis Akura, explained that the workshop aimed to equip administrators with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. He emphasized the importance of understanding governance intricacies and implementing effective management strategies.