Two days after the conclusion of elections into elective positions across the 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas in Lagos, the newly elected chairmen have been sworn into office by the state governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode.
During the event which held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ambode warned the chairmen to shun corruption by embracing transparency and accountability.
Ambode further disclosed that the conclusion of the electoral process marked the beginning of real governance which had been activated by the swearing in of the chairmen and vice chairmen. “It is now time for hard work and the fulfillment of all the promises made to the people. The people have, by their votes, discharged their responsibility. It is now your turn to discharge your part of the social contract you made with the people of your communities, wards and local councils,” he said.
The governor continued that “let me remind you all that you are assuming the mantle of leadership at a time when our people expect so much. Today, our performance as a State is being benchmarked against those of developed economies.
“At the State level, so much is being done to harness the potentials of our State and make it a preferred destination for local/foreign investors and tourists. We are implementing policies and programmes that will promote socio-economic activities and maximise the economic potentials of the three Senatorial zones of the State. This is in line with our commitment to ensure inclusive growth and create opportunities for wealth and job creation.
“As you settle down to the business of governance, you must bear in mind that the participation of the people in governance does not end with elections. The people must be carried along and given the opportunity to have a say in policy making process and implementation.”
Meanwhile Ambode stressed the importance of holding LG positions to the chairmen saying it is from them that the state government expects to get feedback from the people. “You must be accountable and transparent in the management of the resources put in your care for the benefit of the people.
“I want to put it on record today that the elections have come and gone; there must be no discrimination of any form. The dividends of good governance must be fairly distributed to all people without prejudice to political affiliation, gender, religious beliefs or ethnic background. We must cherish and nurture the cosmopolitan nature of our State because it is a key factor in our strength and prosperity.”
Mr. Hammed Idowu Tijani, newly Chairman Ojokoro LCDA signing his oath of office.
