The Bayelsa State government has once again refuted claims that it is tampering with local government funds. Instead, the state government has been providing financial support to local councils, which often face deficits after paying workers’ salaries.
Governor Douye Diri made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony of the Chairmen of two Rural Development Authorities at the 134th State Executive Council meeting held at Government House, Yenagoa.
Diri emphasized that his administration will continue to support local governments financially, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling that granted autonomy to local councils. He explained that some councils in the state struggle with deficits after paying employees, and the state government steps in to augment their funds to prevent hardship.
The governor also highlighted that the establishment of Rural Development Authorities (RDAs) is part of his administration’s efforts to bring development to every part of the state. He urged the newly appointed chairmen to serve the grassroots with dedication and humility.
“My administration will continue to give full support to the local government system, regardless of the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy,” Diri stated. “Contrary to the rumors that state governments control what goes into local government accounts after FAAC allocations, the Bayelsa State government actually augments their funds as some councils run deficits.”
Those sworn in were Mr. Andrew Ikputu-Kirifa for Ogboin South/Tarakiri RDA and Mr. Christian Egbo for Ogbia Central RDA.
Governor Diri also expressed concern over the recent vandalism of power transmission lines that has plunged the state into darkness. He assured that the Commissioner for Power and the Managing Director of the Bayelsa State Electricity Company are working with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to restore power, while plans for independent power supply in the state remain on track.
