By Ibrahim Muhammad
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, has warned public office holders across the state that their oath of office is a binding commitment, not a ceremonial ritual, stressing that they will be held accountable for the trust reposed in them.
The governor gave the warning on Wednesday while declaring open a two-day sensitisation workshop organised by the Jigawa State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (JSPCACC) for officials from the 27 local government areas.
The workshop, themed “A New Chapter of Excellent Service: Integrity, Accountability, Protection of Public Trust and the Role of Local Governments in Implementing JSPCACC’s Mandate,” focused on strengthening transparency and good governance at the grassroots level.
Namadi described the theme as timely, noting that it would deepen understanding of the commission’s mandate and reinforce commitment to ethical leadership among senior local government officials.
“The oath we have sworn serves as a performance bond, committing us to safeguard public resources, address the needs of our people and uphold their trust as a sacred obligation,” the governor said.
He emphasised that genuine development must begin at the grassroots and be anchored on integrity and accountability.
“Your oath of office is not merely ceremonial; it stands as a binding commitment for which you will answer both to the people and before God. Public expenditure and financial management must be handled with diligence and strict adherence to due process,” he added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the JSPCACC, Barrister Salisu Abdu, said the workshop was designed to equip council chairmen, secretaries, directors of administration and general services (DAGS), and treasurers with a clear understanding of the legal boundaries of their offices.
“We are here to ensure that every council official understands the limits of their authority and performs their duties with integrity,” he said.
Abdu also encouraged citizens who feel aggrieved by local administrative decisions to channel their complaints to the commission for redress at no cost.
He commended Governor Namadi for granting the commission operational independence to carry out its mandate without fear or favour.
