Kano State’s Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, has publicly endorsed the notion of financial independence for local councils, emphasizing the significance of empowering these governing bodies.
During a recent meeting with New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) stakeholders at the Government House, he also announced that local government elections in the state are on the horizon and will be conducted “very soon.”
Governor Yusuf took the opportunity to reflect on his administration’s decision to allow elected Local Government chairmen from the All Progressive Congress (APC) to complete their terms before transitioning to caretaker committees tasked with overseeing local governance until elections could be organized.
The state government has proactively demonstrated its readiness for these elections by inaugurating the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC). According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Mr. Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Governor Yusuf is dedicated to conducting the council elections in line with a recent Supreme Court ruling that confirmed financial autonomy for local governments.
Highlighting the importance of rule of law, Governor Yusuf expressed his commitment to ensuring financial responsibility, accountability, and transparency within all governance levels. He assured that the forthcoming local elections would be conducted fairly, encouraging opposition parties to nominate qualified candidates without fear of governmental interference.
“Our administration respected the law by allowing the previous Local Government Executive Councils across all 44 local government areas to complete their terms, despite facing internal pressures,” Governor Yusuf stated. He further emphasized that his commitment to accountability, along with the recent Supreme Court ruling, has driven preparations for the upcoming council elections.
With KANSIEC making significant strides in organizing the elections, Governor Yusuf confirmed that the polls would occur shortly.
“We will soon invite you to nominate our party’s candidates for the 44 Local Government Areas, who will contend for the positions of Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors,” he added, signaling a proactive approach to local governance in Kano State.
