Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State clarified on Monday that the recent autonomy granted to local government councils does not imply that council chairmen operate independently of the State Government.
Speaking shortly after inaugurating the thirty-one newly elected local government chairmen, Eno urged them to avoid misinterpreting the concept of autonomy. He emphasized that no branch of government can function in isolation.
He stated, “Each of you is now autonomous in your financial dealings, meaning you will receive your funds directly. However, we share responsibilities that must be carefully considered. We need to collaborate on how teachers’ salaries, allowances, and gratuities will be managed. It’s essential that we align our efforts for the benefit of our people. There is no true autonomy in governance.”
The governor further asserted that autonomy does not equate to running separate entities from the State Government. “You are an integral part of the government machinery, and your actions and policies should align with our Governance blueprint, the ARISE Agenda,” he added.
Eno congratulated the chairmen on their electoral victories and reiterated his stance that council chairmen must reside within their respective local government areas as chief security officers of their LGAs.
He also expressed gratitude to Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC), and his team for conducting a free, fair, and credible election, evident in the diverse emergence of winners across party lines.
“We will not encourage visiting chairmen. You must live in your local government areas. Remain within your jurisdictions. You are autonomous, so stay in your communities,” he urged.
To the women, Eno remarked, “We are grateful for your proper integration. Although my dear wife is not with us today, she has fought a good fight. I am confident that from the balcony of Heaven, she smiles down on us, pleased with what has been achieved.”
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