By Ikenna Osuoha, News Agency of Nigeria, Abuja

A stakeholder and a concerned citizen of Kogi, Mr Shuaibu Ishaq has urged Kogi governor, Ahmed Ododo to show transparency in the disbursement of local government funds.

Ishaq gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja while reacting to speculations on alleged diversion of local government funds by some state governors.

He said that a transparent publication of the income and expenditure of local government funds would restore confidence and trust of the people.

“Your Excellency,
With deep respect and a sense of civic duty, I appeal to the Government of Kogi State to take a bold and exemplary step toward promoting transparency and accountability.

“By publishing the annual budgets and audited revenue reports of all 21 Local Government Areas in the state,” he said.

Ishaq said that the request is rooted in the growing public interest and concern regarding the management of local government funds.

According to him, especially in light of the mounting speculations that allocations from the Federation Account are being circumvented leaving council treasuries empty.

He reiterated the imperatives of embracing transparency and accountability with local government funds, aimed at making the third tier of government function efficiently.

Ishaq said: “Local governments remain the closest tier of government to the people, the true foundation of grassroots development.”

He said that the publication of local governments’ financial statements, budgets, and audited reports would not only dispel rumors but also strengthen public confidence in the administration’s commitment to good governance.

Ishaq who restated calls for local government’s financial autonomy, said the governor has the opportunity of leading by publishing financial records of the 21 local governments in Kogi.

He expressed the need for the governor and others to embrace fiscal discipline to dispel erosion of trust and speculations.

Ishaq explained that a transparent management of local government funds would not only empower citizens, but embolden civil society, and development partners to engage constructively in monitoring local projects.

He lauded President Tinubu for his determination to Strengthen the local government, saying that only transparent management would complement the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“As citizens, we desire a government that is not only effective but also open in its dealings.” (NAN)