Gov. Muhammadu Jibrilla of Adamawa has directed local government council chairmen in the state to account for the salaries of their workers.

The governor also asked the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Gazali Mohammed, to investigate four acting local government council chairmen over alleged misappropriation of money meant for workers’ salaries. Jibrilla gave the directive on Friday after an emergency meeting with acting chairmen of the 21 local government councils of the state over problem of salaries.

The affected local governments are Lamurde, Jada, Shelleng and Demsa. The governor said that his administration is hinged on transparency and accountability, adding that public funds must be adequately accounted for. He flayed the attitude of using staff salaries for other purposes, warning the councils to desist from unauthorised expenditures.

“I must emphasise on accountability and transparency because this is a change administration.

“Our change should not be by mere sayings but in practice.

“I have made payment of salaries a front line charge and as such there is no how one can short change staff salaries for other pressing issues.

“I won’t take it kindly with any official who will use public funds without any authorisation from his supervisory ministry.”

In her defence at the meeting, the Acting Chairman of Lamurde, Mrs. Adisukti Johannah, accused the council treasurer and cashier of illegal withdrawals of money without her consent.

The Commissioner of Police said the police would investigate the matter. (NAN)

•Photo shows Governor Jibrilla.

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