The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a stern warning to local government chairmen in Nigeria, including those in Gombe State, against misusing financial autonomy for personal gain.
Speaking at the Gombe State Local Government Summit, EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, cautioned council executives to resist the temptation of embezzling public funds. He reminded them that financial autonomy does not grant constitutional immunity, and any violation of financial laws would be swiftly prosecuted.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, Olukoyede announced that the EFCC would deploy additional personnel to Gombe State to oversee fund management.
He expressed concerns over past mismanagement of council funds, warning that the EFCC would not wait until officials leave office to hold them accountable.
Olukoyede emphasized that financial autonomy should enhance local government funding, not serve as an avenue for corruption. He pointed out that in the past, some council officials treated government resources as personal ATMs, diverting public funds instead of investing in community development.
Now that local governments have financial independence, excuses about state governors controlling funds are no longer valid. He stressed that chairmen must use these resources transparently and responsibly.
To ensure compliance with financial regulations, Olukoyede urged council officials to enhance their knowledge of resource management and fiscal responsibility.
The summit’s theme was ‘Local Government Autonomy, Fiscal Responsibility, and Sustainable Development.’ The EFCC chairman reaffirmed that with proper financial management, local governments can drive sustainable growth and community development across Nigeria.
