The Delta State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts has opened deliberations on the 2024 financial records of the state’s 25 local government councils, reinforcing its constitutional mandate to uphold transparency and accountability at the grassroots.
The session, held in Asaba, on Wednesday was chaired by Hon. James Augoye, who represents Okpe Constituency in the House.
In his opening remarks, Augoye underscored that the exercise was anchored on the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the legislature to review and monitor public accounts.
Welcoming council chairmen and top officials from Delta Central Senatorial District, Augoye stressed that the review was not a witch-hunt but a necessary measure to ensure conformity with financial regulations.
He assured participants that the committee would be guided strictly by relevant laws in carrying out its oversight responsibilities.
Augoye was flanked by fellow committee members including Hon. Spencer Owhofa, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, and Hon. Frank Esenwa, who joined in emphasizing the Assembly’s resolve to deepen accountability in local governance.
The Auditor General for Local Governments, Mr. Ikenna Ukpaka, also addressed the session. He described the oversight initiative as timely, adding that it would strengthen fiscal discipline across the councils.
Echoing his stance, the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Hon. Lucky Avweromre, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, pledged full cooperation with the committee to ensure a successful outcome.
Also present was the State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Okpe Council Chairman, Hon. Isaiah Esiovwa, alongside counterparts from Ethiope East, Ethiope West, Udu, Uvwie, Sapele, Ughelli South, and Ughelli North LGAs.
The committee is expected to continue its closed-door examination of the Auditor General’s report in the coming days, with findings aimed at reinforcing prudent financial management and promoting good governance across Delta’s 25 councils.
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