From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, on Monday swore in 27 newly elected local government chairmen and directed them to immediately relocate, along with their families, to their respective local government headquarters.
The chairmen took the oath of office, administered by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Bello Abdulkadir Fanini, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Dutse.
“This is not the era of residing in Kano, Abuja, or Dutse while serving as the chairman of Buji, Guri, or Kafin Hausa,” Governor Namadi declared. “You must reside in your area 24/7, as your attention could be needed at any time.”
He emphasized that all 27 local government areas have adequate residences built for their chairmen. “If the residence is in poor condition, renovate it. You must live among your people to serve them effectively. I will not tolerate abandoning your duties for frequent and unnecessary travels. Action will be taken against anyone who fails to comply.”
The Governor also issued a stern warning against illegal land, grazing, and forest reserve transactions, threatening jail time for offenders.
“I am warning all of you to avoid the illegal allocation and sale of lands, grazing areas, and forest reserves in your jurisdictions. The administration of land, forests, and grazing reserves is under the governor’s authority. You have no power in these matters unless authorized by me,” he stated.
Governor Namadi further urged the chairmen to ensure inclusive governance. “You must involve councillors, civil servants, and other stakeholders, allowing them to perform their duties. Everyone is important,” he said.
He called on the chairmen to act with fairness and justice, discharging their duties with the fear of God, as they will be held accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the governor appealed to the people to offer full support and cooperation to the new local government councils, enabling them to fulfill their constitutional duties and achieve their objectives.