From: Femi Oyelola in Kaduna
The Association of Local Government Chairmen (ALGON) of Kaduna State has reacted to a recent online article by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that the state government had withheld federal allocations intended for the 23 local government councils.
ALGON described the allegation as “incorrect, misleading, and requiring clarification to prevent the spread of misinformation.”
The statement was signed by Muhammad Lawal Shehu, Publicity Secretary of ALGON Kaduna State, who emphasized that the circulating narrative is “wholly careless, mischievous, and unmistakably false.” He added that Governor Uba Sani, CON, has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to genuine local governance, treating it as a core principle rather than mere rhetoric.
ALGON pointed out that, in the long history of Kaduna State, no administration has expanded the operational independence of local councils with such breadth, sincerity, and strategic focus as the current government.
Those who suggest otherwise, they stated, yearn for an era when councils were deprived of authority and treated as mere administrative footnotes.
The association further argued that portraying Governor Sani as a leader who withholds funds from local governments is both inaccurate and malicious.
They explained that federal allocations follow a structured, multi-layered process that requires administrative clarity, financial verification, and compliance. Any occasional delays are due to systemic procedures, not executive whims or political manipulation.
ALGON accused a small group of former political actors—rejected by the electorate for their divisive tactics and uninspiring leadership—of manufacturing controversy to regain public visibility.
Having lost their moral authority, they now sow suspicion and anxiety, seeking relevance through disruption, even if it pulls the state back into darker times.
The release noted that Governor Sani has refused to engage in grim practices such as indiscriminate demolitions, mass dismissals, or a governance style based on fear. Instead, his administration prioritizes inclusion, empathy, and development, opting for ability over spectacle, healing over hostility, and partnership over confrontation.
ALGON expressed disappointment that Sahara Reporters, once a platform of significant public influence, amplified these “manufactured outrage” claims. They reminded journalists that their strength lies in accuracy, balance, and diligence, urging the media to distinguish between constructive scrutiny and sabotage.
ALGON asserted that Kaduna State deserves better—truth over conjecture. They called on all responsible media actors to recognize the distinction between constructive criticism and calculated misinformation, emphasizing that while governments must be examined, such scrutiny must be grounded in fact.
Reaffirming their confidence in Governor Sani’s leadership, ALGON stated that local governments under this administration have not only been empowered but treated with respect, dignity, and recognition as the first responders to the people’s most immediate needs.
“Our mandate is service; our duty is development; our responsibility is to ensure that the truth is never overshadowed by the noise of opportunists,” the release concluded.
Kaduna State stands at a pivotal moment, defined not by past schemes but by a collective focus on transparency, progress, and unity.
The association pledged to remain committed to this path and not be distracted by claims built on conjecture rather than fact.
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