The Abia State Government has warned mayors of the 17 local government areas and other senior officials against the diversion of public funds, urging them to strengthen financial management and administrative accountability across their respective councils.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. Uzor Nwachukwu, gave the warning on Thursday in Umuahia during the opening of a two day anti-corruption sensitisation programme organised in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Nwachukwu said the administration of Governor Alex Otti was committed to conducting government business with discipline, transparency and measurable results, adding that these principles must guide operations across all 17 local government areas.
He stressed that local governments should go beyond their traditional administrative responsibilities and function as effective drivers of development, economic opportunities and improved living conditions for residents.
The commissioner noted that the state government was pursuing initiatives in agriculture, youth development, rural infrastructure and local economic empowerment. He emphasised that such programmes required adequate funding, proper coordination and responsible management of public resources.
According to him, the success of government programmes should not be judged solely by the amount of money released but by the tangible benefits delivered to the people.
Nwachukwu also assured the ICPC of the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the commission in promoting integrity and institutional accountability. He urged participants to take the sensitisation programme seriously and apply its lessons in their respective offices.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, commended the ICPC for initiating the programme and partnering with the ministry to strengthen accountability and ethical conduct in local government administration.
She also appreciated the commissioner for his leadership and support towards the successful organisation of the programme.
Written by Enitan Mudashiru
