- Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State pledged to hold accountable officials who tampered with the Sallah gift approved for state and local government workers
- The governor demanded the immediate return of diverted funds and warned of serious consequences for the culprits, reiterating his administration’s commitment to accountability and transparency
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has pledged to hold accountable those government officials who tampered with the Sallah gift approved for state and local government workers, including teachers. The governor had sanctioned a gift of N30,000 for each worker, but reports emerged that some workers received significantly less.
“Some were given N19,000, some received N20,000, and some are yet to receive their own,” one affected worker informed Daily Trust.
Addressing a large gathering of well-wishers and supporters at the Government House in Sokoto over the weekend, Governor Aliyu issued a stern warning to the officials involved in the diversion, demanding that they return the funds immediately or face serious consequences.
“I wonder how somebody would deny our workers the stipend we gave them to make them financially stable during the Sallah festive season. Those who diverted those funds must return them immediately, or 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,” he said.
The governor directed all heads of agencies involved to promptly compile a list of affected workers to ensure they are refunded. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and 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. This administration is a true reflection of the government of the people, for the people and indeed by the people. So, we have a huge task ahead of us that we must carry out diligently without minding whose ox is gored,” Aliyu added.
Governor Aliyu also called on the state’s people to continue supporting the current administration in its efforts to deliver on campaign promises. He expressed gratitude to the state APC leader, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, for his guidance and to the people of Sokoto for their continued support and prayers for the administration.