In a historic event marking a new chapter in grassroots governance, Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected local government chairmen, the first peaceful democratic transition of power between two elected councils in the state’s history.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Radda congratulated the chairmen on their electoral victories, emphasizing that their election is not only legitimate but a testament to the trust and confidence the people of Katsina have placed in them.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter of grassroots governance in Katsina State,” Radda declared.
“As leaders at the local level, you are now at the forefront of development and unity within your respective localities.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the full implementation of local government autonomy across all 34 local government areas of the state.
He announced the establishment of new departments under the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, to be headed by a special adviser tasked with inspectorate duties aimed at enhancing accountability and efficient utilization of resources at the local level.
“Your mandate is to ensure no community is left behind,” Radda stated, highlighting sectors like rural development, water, healthcare, agriculture, and security as priority areas.
While recognizing the significant challenges facing the state, the governor urged the new chairmen to see their responsibilities as a call to service, not an opportunity for personal enrichment.
He emphasized integrity, transparency, and accountability as the hallmarks of effective leadership.
“Corruption, negligence, and inefficiency will not be tolerated under my watch. We must work together to restore the dignity and functionality of our local government system,” Radda warned.
He pledged continued support from the state government in the form of guidance, assistance, and financial backing to help local councils fulfil their mandates.
However, he was clear that support must be met with excellence in delivery.
“This partnership works both ways,” he said. “We will do our part, but I expect outstanding results in return.”
Governor Radda’s administration continues to prioritize grassroots empowerment and decentralization as key strategies in driving development and addressing insecurity across Katsina State.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has issued a stern warning to newly sworn-in local government chairmen in Katsina State against the mismanagement of public funds.
Ganduje emphasized that local government financial autonomy should not be seen as an opportunity to squander resources.
He cautioned the chairmen against being present only when federal allocations are disbursed, stressing the importance of consistent commitment to duty.
“You must not be in office only when there are allocations and grants from the Federal Government. You are elected to serve, and that duty must be fulfilled with diligence and transparency,” he said.
Ganduje assured the chairmen that Governor Radda is committed to granting them 100 percent of their allocations but added that the government will closely monitor and audit their expenditures.
“Governor Radda believes in the independence and effective management of local governments. However, any chairman found wanting will be sanctioned,” he warned.
Congratulating the chairmen, Ganduje praised the administration’s support for grassroots governance and reiterated the need for responsible leadership at the local level.
