Gov Aliyu reads riot act to LG officials over Sallah gifts

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has vowed to punish local government officials who tampered with gifts approved for workers during Sallah celebrations.

The governor had approved N30,000 each as Sallah gift for all workers in the state and local government areas, including teachers.

However, it was alleged that some of the workers, especially those at the local government areas, were not given up to that amount.

“Some were given N19,000, some received N20,000, and some are yet to receive anything,” one of the affected workers told Daily Trust.

• Scores rendered homeless as flood wreaks havoc in Jigawa community
• Ruto faced Kenyan youths in rare X Space meeting

Addressing a crowd of well-wishers and supporters at the Government House, Sokoto at the weekend, the governor warned those behind the diversion to immediate return the money or face serious consequences.

“I wonder how somebody would deny our workers the stipends we gave them in order to make them financially stable during the Sallah festive season. Those who diverted those funds must return them immediately, or else, we will take serious punitive measures against them.

“We will ensure that the culprits reap what they sowed to serve as deterrent to others,” he warned.

Gov Aliyu, therefore, charged all heads of agencies where such alleged corrupt practices were perpetrated to hasten the compilation of all the affected workers and ensure that they are refunded.

He also assured the people of the state of his administration’s determination to ensure accountability, transparency and the prudent management of public funds for the good of all.

“This administration is out to ensure zero-tolerance for corruption and all corrupt tendencies. So, if anybody thinks he can loot public fund and get away with it, then he must be sick. This administration is a true reflection of the government of the people, for the people, and indeed, by the people.

“So, we have a huge task ahead of us that we must carry out diligently without minding whose ox is gored,” Aliyu averred.

The governor further called on the people of the state to continue to rally round the present administration in its undying quest to deliver on its campaign promises.

The governor also thanked the All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his fatherly role and guidance to the present administration in the state.