Kwara to rate local councils’ performance on payment of salaries

The Kwara State government would grade the performance of the Transition Implementation Committees (TICs) for the 16 local councils in the state strictly on the prompt payment of the councils’ staff salaries.

The governor of the state, Abdulfatah Ahmed, argued that since governance is a continuum, the TICs must clear backlog of salaries and pensions in the local councils within the shortest possible time.

Ahmed, who directed the committees to make financial prudence their watchword, advised them to prioritize low hanging infrastructure that will bring swift relief to the people.

“In this regard, you are to avoid making unnecessary appointments, shun ostentation and avoid any conduct capable of calling your integrity into question”, he said.

The governor promised the state government’s support to the local government councils within available resources and guidance to see them through the difficult times.

According to the governor, when the report of the State Committee on Personnel Database Development is submitted, monthly recurrent expenditure at the local and state levels will reduce, which will free funds for infrastructural development.

He reminded the people of the state on the need to pay their taxes and levies regularly for the government to have funds required for the infrastructural development of the State, adding that tax defaulters would face the wrath of the law.

“Just as the welfare of citizens is obligatory on government, the payment of taxes is compulsory for all eligible individuals and businesses. You cannot expect to benefit from services provided by government from taxes and yet refuse to contribute to paying your tax”, the governor said.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman, Ilorin South Local Government Transition Implementation Committee, Isiaka Dan Memoru promised that they would discharge their responsibilities with utmost commitment to the welfare of the people of their local councils.