BENIN CITY – Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a strict 48-hour deadline for all 18 local government council chairmen to submit their financial statements. The directive mandates that the statements, covering the period from September 4, 2023, to date, be submitted to the Assets Verification Committee through the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The Governor’s Message
The order was announced during a meeting at the Government House in Benin City, where the council chairmen, led by the state chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Newman Ugiagbe, paid a courtesy visit. Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa emphasized the administration’s commitment to working collaboratively with the council bosses to achieve progress in Edo State.
In a statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, the governor underscored the importance of transparency and accountability. He noted that the Assets Verification Committee needs accurate financial records to function effectively.
“I have listened to the ALGON Chairman. The Governor is a leader to all of us. The election is over, and we are now one family. The Governor assures you that we will work closely together. Transparency and accountability are key, and that is why we need your statements of accounts from September 4, 2023, to today,” said the Deputy Governor.
Focus on Transparency and Accountability
Governor Okpebholo’s administration has made transparency a cornerstone of its governance. The Assets Verification Committee, recently formed, is tasked with reviewing the financial records of all local government areas to ensure accountability. By requiring council chairmen to submit their financial statements, the governor aims to foster a culture of openness and responsible financial management across the state.
The governor’s directive is clear: the council chairmen must submit their records within 48 hours. This proactive approach highlights the administration’s determination to maintain integrity and efficiency in public service.
ALGON Chairman Pledges Support
Speaking on behalf of the local government chairmen, Newman Ugiagbe, who is also the chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, pledged their loyalty and cooperation with the state government. He assured the governor of their commitment to implementing state policies at the grassroots level.
“We are here to congratulate the Governor and Deputy on their mandate and to pledge our loyalty. Our doors are open to your instructions, policies, and programs. We are ready to bring your policies to the grassroots, ensuring that our people benefit from the dividends of democracy,” Ugiagbe said.
What’s Next?
The council chairmen have until the deadline to submit their financial statements. The outcome of this process will likely set the tone for the administration’s relationship with local governments moving forward. As the Edo State government pushes for transparency, the focus will remain on ensuring accountability at all levels of governance.
