In a bold and unwavering move, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has issued a stern warning to all Local Government Area (LGA) Chairmen across Nigeria—particularly the 95 councils within the Southeast—against the illegal diversion of public funds. The message is clear: any attempt to misappropriate LGA allocations for personal enrichment or political patronage will be met with legal action and potential jail time.
The recent Federal Government directive mandating the opening of dedicated accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for direct allocations from the Federation Account marks a significant milestone in promoting transparency and curbing financial misconduct in local governance. This policy, which aligns with the Supreme Court ruling advocating for direct allocation to all 774 local councils, has been hailed by Ohanaeze Ndigbo as a crucial step towards restoring accountability at the grassroots level.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
Ohanaeze Ndigbo is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that LGA funds are used for their intended purpose—community development, infrastructure, and the welfare of the people. The organization is sending a strong message to LGA Chairmen:
Strict Monitoring: The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) is actively tracking fund management to ensure compliance with financial best practices. Any discrepancies will not go unnoticed.
Anti-Corruption Crackdown: Ohanaeze is working closely with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute any official found guilty of fund mismanagement.
No Protection for Offenders: LGA bosses must recognize that no Governor can shield them from justice if they collude in financial improprieties. Misuse of funds intended for paying the salaries of local government workers and teachers will not be tolerated.
Ending the Exploitation of Local Resources
For far too long, Local Government resources have been siphoned off to fund personal ambitions, leaving communities in dire straits. Ohanaeze Ndigbo has made it unequivocally clear that this destructive practice must stop immediately. The organization is taking proactive steps by setting up an auditing committee tasked with monitoring fund disbursement and ensuring adherence to financial regulations.
In addition, any legislative maneuvers by certain Southeast Governors, in collaboration with State House of Assembly members, aimed at regaining access to LGA funds under dubious pretenses, will face strong legal opposition. Ohanaeze vows to challenge such actions in court and hold those responsible accountable.
A Stern Warning to LGA Leaders
The stakes are high, and the consequences of financial mismanagement are severe. Ohanaeze Ndigbo has made it abundantly clear that LGA Chairmen must rise to the occasion and demonstrate ethical leadership. Any betrayal of public trust will not be tolerated.
“The time for accountability is now,” said Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. “Let our leaders understand that public funds are not a private inheritance but a sacred trust to be used for the development and prosperity of our people.”
Conclusion: A New Era of Accountability
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s stance marks the beginning of a new era in local governance, where transparency, responsibility, and service to the people take precedence over personal gain. This warning serves as a clarion call to all LGA leaders: serve with integrity, or face the full wrath of the law.
Let this be a turning point where public funds are channeled toward progress and development, and where the Southeast can proudly set an example for the rest of Nigeria in good governance.
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