Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has instructed officials of the Local Government and Local Government Education Authority to return the diverted ₦30,000 Sallah gifts intended for workers in the state, warning of severe consequences if they fail to comply, as reported by PUNCH.
Addressing a crowd of supporters and well-wishers at the Government House in Sokoto on Friday, following a successful Hajj exercise, Aliyu expressed his disappointment with certain finance officers, particularly at the local government level, for depriving staff of the approved Sallah gifts.
Aliyu questioned how anyone could deny workers the stipends meant to provide financial stability during the festive season. He emphasized that those responsible for diverting the funds must return them immediately or face strict punitive measures. He assured that the culprits would face consequences to serve as a deterrent to others.
He stated, “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 a deterrent to others.”
The governor also urged heads of agencies where such corrupt practices occurred to quickly compile a list of affected workers to ensure they are refunded. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and the prudent management of public funds for the benefit of all.
Aliyu stated that his administration would not tolerate corruption, asserting that anyone attempting to embezzle public funds would face repercussions. He described his administration as a true reflection of a government of the people, for the people, and by the people, and stressed the importance of diligently fulfilling their responsibilities without favoritism.
He called on the people of Sokoto State to continue supporting the administration in its efforts to fulfill campaign promises. Additionally, Aliyu expressed gratitude to the All Progressives Congress leader in the state, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko, for his guidance, and thanked the people of the state for their unwavering support and prayers, urging them to maintain this support.