Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has issued a stern warning to local government and local government education authority officials who allegedly siphoned N30,000 in Sallah gifts intended for workers.
According to DAILY POST, he demanded that the diverted funds be returned immediately or face serious consequences.
The governor's warning was delivered on Friday while addressing a large gathering of well-wishers and supporters at the Government House in Sokoto.
This announcement was also contained in a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the Governor, Abubakar Bawa, which was made available to newsmen.
Governor Aliyu expressed his dismay over the actions of certain financial officers, particularly at the local government level, who deprived staff of the N30,000 approved as Sallah gifts by the state government.
"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," he said.
He emphasized that those who diverted the funds must return them immediately or face punitive measures.
"We will ensure that the culprits reap what they sowed to serve as a deterrent to others," the governor added.
Governor Aliyu also called on the heads of agencies where such corrupt practices occurred to expedite the compilation of affected workers and ensure they receive their due payments.
He reassured the people of Sokoto State of his administration's commitment to accountability, transparency, and the prudent management of public funds for the benefit of all.
“This administration is all out to ensure zero tolerance for corruption and all corrupt tendencies.
"So, if anybody thinks he can loot public funds and get away with it, then he must be sick," Governor Aliyu stated.
He further emphasized the administration's dedication to serving the people, describing it as a true reflection of the government of the people, for the people, and by the people.
"We have a huge task ahead of us that we must carry out diligently without minding whose ox is gored," he asserted.