The Jigawa State House of Assembly has tasked the Local Government Service Commission with enforcing strict disciplinary measures against any local government staff found wanting, stressing that such actions are crucial to deterring misconduct and safeguarding the system from stagnation.
The call was made by Honourable Aminu Zakari, Chairman of the Assembly’s Committee on Local Government, after a two-day working visit to the commission’s office in Dutse, the state capital, on Friday.
Zakari, who represents Gwiwa Constituency, emphasized that disciplinary action must be taken “without fear or favour” to maintain accountability. He also urged the commission to sustain proper administrative and financial record-keeping, describing it as a model for local government administrators across the state.
“The commission must continue to set the pace by enforcing discipline and upholding accurate records to prevent corruption and inefficiency,” Zakari said, adding that vigilance and proactive measures were needed to strengthen grassroots governance.
He further proposed a joint meeting between the Assembly committee, the Ministry for Local Government, and the commission to address recurring staff issues and chart lasting solutions for improved administration in Jigawa’s 27 local government areas.
In response, the Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Lawal Muhammad, acknowledged challenges affecting local administration and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts.
Also speaking, the Commission’s Chairman, Uba Ringim—represented by Permanent Commissioner II, Ali Jahun—welcomed the committee’s visit, pledging commitment to best practices and promising to implement the Assembly’s recommendations.
“This joint approach signals a renewed effort towards better local government administration and improved public service in Jigawa State,” Jahun said.
Local governments, which handle primary healthcare, basic education, sanitation, and rural infrastructure, remain critical to grassroots development in Nigeria. However, issues such as ghost workers, absenteeism, and weak accountability persist.
In June, a payroll audit revealed about 7,000 ghost workers in Jigawa State, leading to their removal from the government’s wage bill, DTOWNCRIER Online earlier reported.
