Induction: Governor Ododo Charges Local Government Officials on Accountability, Transparency »

The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on the 21 local government chairmen, councillors, and administrative personnel across the state to uphold accountability and transparency in the discharge of their duties. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to openness and ethical governance.

Governor Ododo issued this charge on Wednesday during the closing ceremony of a three-day induction workshop held in Lokoja. The event, themed “Emerging Challenges and Benefits of Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria”, was designed to equip council officials with best practices in local governance.

Represented by the secretary to the government of the state, Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Arike Ayoade, the governor emphasized the importance of accurate record-keeping and proper documentation as key tools for ensuring transparency and accountability in local administration.

He further warned against fraudulent activities by council officials, particularly the practice of name-dropping to perpetrate corruption, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the full wrath of the law.

“The induction programme is part of our effort to build capacity and expose local government officials to global best practices,” Governor Ododo stated, adding that proficiency in both internal and external financial auditing is essential to providing accountable and effective service delivery.

Earlier, a key resource person, Mr. Emmanuel Onimisi, delivered a lecture on “Effective Documentation for Audit and Accountability Purposes.” He stressed the critical role of proper documentation in audit processes and advised council officials against cutting corners, urging strict adherence to procedural standards.

Speaking to our correspondent, the Auditor-General for Local Government, Hon. Yakubu Adabenege Siyaka expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the event, stressing that the workshop provided participants with the tools and knowledge needed to strengthen governance at the grassroots level, in alignment with the state government’s reform agenda.

He praised Governor Ododo for promoting inclusiveness and ensuring that the practice of transparency and accountability which are the hallmarks of his administration at the state is also replicated at the local government level to ensure all-round development.

Adabenege assured that capacity building for local government officials will be periodic to ensure best practices.