In a ceremony marking a significant shift in Adamawa State’s political landscape, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri officially swore in 21 newly elected local government council chairmen on Monday, June 17th, 2024. The event, held at the Government House Council Chamber in Yola, the state capital, served as a pivotal moment – not just for the chairmen themselves, but for the future trajectory of local governance in Adamawa.
A Celebration of Democracy
The ceremony unfolded with an air of celebration and anticipation. Dignitaries, party faithful, and members of the public filled the chamber, eager to witness the official induction of the new leaders. Governor Fintiri, dressed in his official attire, addressed the gathering, expressing his satisfaction with the recently concluded local government elections.
“These elections,” he declared, “were a testament to the strength of democracy in Adamawa State. The peaceful conduct of the polls and the high voter turnout are commendable. Now, the real work begins – the work of delivering dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots level.”
The 21 chairmen, representing all local government areas (LGAs) in Adamawa, emerged victorious from elections held on Saturday, June 15th, 2024. Notably, a significant majority belonged to Governor Fintiri’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), solidifying the party’s dominance in local politics.
A Charge to Serve with Integrity
Following his introductory remarks, Governor Fintiri administered the oath of office to each chairman, officially entrusting them with the responsibility of leading their respective LGAs. However, the ceremony wasn’t merely a formality. The Governor, aware of the challenges and temptations that often plague local government administration, used the platform to deliver a powerful message focused on transparency, accountability, and service to the people.
“The trust bestowed upon you by the electorate is a sacred one,” Governor Fintiri emphasized. “You have been elected to serve the people, not yourselves. Eschew corruption and ensure that every naira allocated to your council areas is used judiciously for the benefit of the citizens.
He further stressed the importance of inclusivity, urging the chairmen to work collaboratively with all stakeholders within their LGAs, irrespective of political affiliation. The task of development requires a united front,” he stated. “Embrace all members of your communities, listen to their needs, and work together to improve their lives.”
Priorities for Progress
Governor Fintiri went on to outline key priorities for the new council leaders. He emphasized the need to prioritize basic necessities such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and job creation. He urged the chairmen to focus on rural development, ensuring that essential services reach even the most remote corners of their LGAs.
Remember,” Governor Fintiri concluded, “you are the face of government at the grassroots level. Your performance will directly impact the lives of millions of Adamawa residents. Embrace this responsibility with dedication, integrity, and a genuine commitment to serving the people.”
Reactions and Expectations
The newly sworn-in chairmen reacted positively to the Governor’s address. Chairman Musa Umar of Yola North LGA expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged his commitment to fulfilling the Governor’s directives. “We understand the weight of responsibility placed upon us,” he stated. “We are prepared to work diligently and transparently to bring about positive change in our communities.”
However, some residents expressed cautious optimism. Aminu Salihu, a community leader from Mubi South LGA, remarked, “We’ve heard promises before. What matters now is action. We expect these new chairmen to walk the talk and deliver on their promises.”
The success of the newly sworn-in chairmen will undoubtedly be measured by the tangible improvements they bring to their LGAs. Their ability to address critical issues like poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure will determine their legacy.
A Collaborative Approach to Progress
The swearing-in ceremony serves as a starting point for a new chapter in Adamawa State’s local governance. Governor Fintiri’s emphasis on transparency and accountability sets the tone for a more results-oriented approach. However, the onus lies not just on the chairmen, but also on the citizens themselves.
Actively engaging with their local government officials, holding them accountable, and participating in community development initiatives will be crucial for ensuring the success of the new administration. By working collaboratively, the government, the chairmen, and the people can collectively build a brighter future for Adamawa State.
