The Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, has urged Local Government legislators in the state to ensure thorough scrutiny of council expenditures to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance at the grassroots.
Speaker Jatau made the call while hosting members of the Local Government Legislative Councils under the Forum of Speakers of LG Legislative Councils at the Assembly complex on Monday. The forum, which comprises the Speakers and Principal Officers of the 13 LGAs in the state, sought to foster collaboration between the Assembly and the councils.
Acknowledging discrepancies in local government expenditures, the Speaker emphasized the need for legislative oversight to ensure financial discipline and accountability in the third tier of government. He lauded the federal and state governments for prioritizing local government autonomy, which he described as a vital step toward effective governance.
The Speaker also called for enhanced synergy between council legislators and local government chairmen, stressing that peace, unity, and cooperation are critical to achieving sustainable development in the state. He assured the legislators of the Assembly's support in providing workshops and training to equip them with the necessary skills for drafting effective by-laws.
"I congratulate you all on your victories at the polls. You are the closest representatives of the people at the grassroots, and much is expected from you. You must justify the confidence reposed in you. I commend Governor Abdullahi Sule for providing an enabling environment for LG elections and assure you of the House's full support in ensuring adherence to the local government autonomy law," Speaker Jatau said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nasarawa State Forum of Speakers of Local Government Legislative Councils, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Shuaibu Madaki, commended the Assembly for enacting the local government law, which he believes will enhance transparency, accountability, and development.
Madaki appealed to the Assembly to set up a committee to examine the financial standing and expenditures of local governments to ensure prudent management of taxpayers' funds. He also emphasized the need for a robust partnership between the Assembly and the forum to foster overall development in the state.
The forum’s visit marked a new chapter in strengthening local government administration for effective service delivery.
