Kogi NGOs seek State, LG Audit Boards

Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has stressed the need for the state government to appoint and inaugurate statutory boards, especially the State and Local Government Audit Board to ensure transparency in government transaction.

This was part of the recommendations of KONGONET to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo as his administration clocked two years. Governor Ododo was sworn into office on January 27, 2023.

The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) is the apex coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) operating across Kogi State, working in the areas of governance, health, education, human rights, humanitarian response, transparency, accountability, social inclusion, and sustainable development.

In a statement signed by Hamza Aliyu and Reuben Joshua, chairperson and secretary of KONGONET, respectively, titled

“Two Years Of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo’s Administration In Kogi State: Gains, Gaps, And The Road Ahead”, noted that the the administration has recorded notable progress in infrastructure, health engagement, agriculture, security collaboration, and openness to civic engagement in the last two years.

They however observed persistent challenges in water supply, waste management, citizen participation, and procurement transparency that threaten to undermine public confidence.

The duo maintained that as the administration enters its final two years, decisive action on these issues will not only demonstrate positive governance outcomes but will also shape citizens’ perceptions ahead of future electoral contests.

They maintained that KONGONET remains committed to constructive engagement and stands ready to work with the Kogi State Government to advance accountable, inclusive, and people-centred governance.

In addition, it stressed that the government must institutionalise quarterly town hall meetings, through establishment of regular, structured town hall engagements across senatorial districts to rebuild trust and ensure citizen voices inform governance as contained in his 2023 electioneering campaign manifesto.

Others according to the statement are: Publishing annual procurement plans, contract awards, project implementation status and the state financial commitment in accessible formats. This is more so at the local government level where the Statutory Bodies and Commissions have not been constituted.

“Declare a State of Emergency on Urban Water Supply and Prioritize sustainable water solutions for Lokoja and other cities through rehabilitation of waterworks and transparent partnerships.

“Implement a comprehensive urban sanitation strategy, including private-sector participation, enforcement of sanitation laws, and community engagement.

“Translate international exposure and commitments into concrete local reforms with measurable milestones.

“Institutionalize structured engagement with CSOs, including policy consultations and joint monitoring of government programmes.

“Develop a viable Mass Transit system especially in Lokoja the State Capital that will comprise an integrated Road, Water transport system. Also, government must as a policy issue, provide a subsidized Mass Transport for citizens to cushion the effects of the removal of Subsidy as demonstrated by the Federal Government.

“Support and accelerate the development and signing of a Social Protect Policy Framework to provide a legal document for provision of support for our most vulnerable. Also provide adequate funding for the Agency for Social Security and Protection of Older Citizens Law 2019 to ensure we have a safety net for our aged citizens,” the statement stressed.