Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai has abolished state and local government joint account in the state, thereby giving local government full autonomy to perform their duties.
While speaking while swearing-in sole administrators for the 23 councils in the state yesterday at the Government House, El-Rufai said10 per cent of the states Internally Generated Revenue will be remitted to local government councils.
He said “You have no excuse to fail. Perform and bring real development to our state at the local government level. I am using this occasion to fulfill our campaign promise. During the campaigns, we said we will not hold local government funds if elected.
“Therefore, I am happy to inform you that the government under our watch has formally abolished joint account in Kaduna State, there will be no more holding local government funds hostage under the pretence of joint account.
“I also wish to inform you that the government will do its best to be remitting 10 per cent of the state’s IGR to the local government areas. Like I said, we must deliver, we can’t let our people down.
“In addition, you are to swing into action and commence carrying out meaningful projects in all the wards in your council. Already there is a blueprint of proposed development which you will see and work with as a guide to taking development to our communities.
“Don’t be arrogant to your people, you are assigned to serve them and nothing more than that. We will not hesitate to call you to order if you think you will play with our people and the trust vested in you.
“We did not appoint you because of your religion, ethnicity or where you come from. You have been appointed to work and bring positive change.”
I’m very impressed with El-Rufai for delivering on his promise to return financial independence to the local government of his state by canceling the joint account between the state and local governments, thereby, giving every local government the autonomy they deserve to have. I contend that this rational decision will help local governments to deliver sustainable dividend at the grassroot level. All other state governments should follow Gov. El-Rufai’s exemplary style of governance. There’s nothing more encouraging and satisfying than seeing a conscientious politician leading ethically and morally. This’s true leadership embodied in selflessness and servanthood.