Ahmed Aliyu, the governor of Sokoto State, has issued a directive to the Local Government and Local Government Education Authority officials, stating that they must refund the N30,000 sallah gifts that were improperly handed to employees in the state, or face harsh penalties.
Following a successful Hajj exercise, the governor issued the warning on Friday in front of a group of well-wishers and supporters at the Government House in Sokoto.
He voiced his dismay at the dishonest behaviour of some finance officers, particularly those at the local government level, who refused to provide their employees the ₦ 30,000 that the state government had approved as gifts for Sallah.
The governor also charged the heads of agencies where such corrupt practices occurred with hastening the compilation of all impacted personnel and ensuring that they are refunded.
Additionally, he gave the state’s citizens assurances about his administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability, openness, and responsible use of public funds for the benefit of everyone.
“This administration is going all out to establish zero tolerance for corruption and corrupt tendencies. “So, anyone who believes he can steal public cash and get away with it must be insane. “This administration exemplifies a government of, for, and by the people.
“So, we have a huge task ahead of us that we must carry out diligently without minding whose ox is gored,” Aliyu told the crowd. The governor also urged the people of the state to continue rallying behind the current administration in its unwavering effort to deliver on its campaign promises.
He also complimented the state’s All Progressives Congress leader, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko, for playing a fatherly role and guiding the current leadership.
In addition, he called for the tempo or sustenance and praised the entire state’s populace for their unwavering support and passionate prayers to the current administration.
What they’re saying
“I find it hard to understand how someone could refuse our employees the stipends we provided to ensure their financial security over the joyous Sallah celebrations.
“Those who diverted those cash must return them promptly or we will take severe disciplinary action against them. “We will ensure that the culprits reap what they sowed to serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
Bottom Line
In my opinion, this action by the Sokoto State government is commendable. It not only addresses the immediate issue of the diverted Sallah gifts but also sets a precedent for handling corruption and mismanagement in the future.
Upholding principles of transparency and accountability is essential for good governance and for ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of all citizens.
This approach will strengthen the relationship between the government and the people, fostering a more cooperative and supportive environment for achieving the state’s developmental goals.
