Cross River Assembly to synergize with LG Chairmen on grassroot development
The Cross River State 10th Assembly, has pledged commitment to synergize with the 18 Local Government Chairmen in the State on development in their council areas.
Speaking at the meeting of the Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee with Chairmen of Councils held at the Assembly’s Complex, Calabar, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem tasked them on human capital development, good governance, accountability and advised them on inclusivity in administering their councils.
Ayambem harped on the posture of Governor Bassey Otu to improve the well-being of Cross Riverians, including those residents in the rural areas. He solicited their support in the actualization of the governor’s lofty plans.
“Our governor is doing a lot to improve the state, he needs the support of everyone. You have a critical role to play in the achievement of the governor’s lofty plans. Please run a harmonious government, carry your vice chairmen and other stakeholders along, ensure proper spread of the appointments approved for you in the Local Government Law,” he said.
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Commitee and Member representing Yala 1 State Constituency, Hon. Odey Brian Wonah said the purpose of the meeting was to enable the Lawmakers familiarize themselves with the LG Chairmen and advise them on regulations and conduct while in office.
Odey congratulated the Chairmen on their victory at the LG elections and urged them to discharge their responsibilities efficiently and effectively, adding that his committee will synergize with them to enhance accountability and transparency.
The lawmaker also applauded the state governor for providing enabling environment for the state to thrive.
“I thank our Governor Senator Bassey Otu, for good governance and for providing an enabling environment for all sectors to grow. Governor Otu has achieved a lot, security has greatly improved, we can now sleep with our eyes closed. In infrastructure, he has done a lot and welfare too. Civil servants and pensioners are smiling because of regular payment of salaries and pensions.”
Other lawmakers, including the deputy leader, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta representing Abi State Constituency; Hon. Okon Owuna, Akamkpa 1 State Constituency, Hon. Samuel Abang Ikom 1 State Constituency, and Hon. Linus Etim Akamkpa 2 State Constituency all urged the chairmen to promote grassroots development, ensure accountability, transparency, improved Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and other best practices while administering their councils.
In his remark, the Auditor General for Local Government, Dr. Oden Eni stressed the importance of effective service delivery at the LG level. He reiterated that accounting records/books must be kept properly by the chairmen and also dwelt on strict compliance to audit laws, regulations circulars, among others.
He directed the chairmen to submit audit reports to his office regularly to enhance effective guidance and synergy while discouraging them from taking loans.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Hon. Yibala Inyang, the Chairman of Yakurr LGA expressed gratitude to the lawmakers as well as the Auditor General for the guidance and promised their adherence to the instructions while pledging their loyalty to the assembly and avoiding frictions that would impact the established synergy with the House.
By: Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)
