You Can’t Sign Chequebooks!’ — Wike Issues Tough Warning To FCT Area Council Chairmen

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to the newly inaugurated six Area Council Chairmen, directing them not to sign chequebooks or interfere with council accounts as part of efforts to strengthen financial accountability in local administration.

According to Ireporter Online, Wike gave the directive on Monday during the inauguration ceremony for the chairmen elected in the February Area Council elections, emphasizing that elected officials are only empowered to approve expenditures while designated civil servants remain the authorized signatories to council accounts.

The minister cautioned that any chairman found violating the directive would face investigation by anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC). He stressed that the era of unauthorized withdrawals and financial manipulation within the councils was over.

Wike reaffirmed his commitment not to interfere with the statutory allocations due to the Area Councils but vowed to closely monitor the movement of public funds to ensure transparency and accountability. He warned the chairmen against engaging treasurers or local government officials in secret financial dealings, insisting that such practices would attract swift action from relevant authorities.

The FCT Minister also urged the newly elected officials to reside within the communities they represent instead of operating from the city. He noted that living among the people would enable them to better understand local challenges, including security concerns such as kidnapping and banditry, while ensuring easier access for constituents seeking government intervention.

He reminded the chairmen that the Constitution empowers them to drive development at the grassroots and encouraged them to prioritize projects and policies that directly improve the lives of residents. Wike emphasized that effective leadership requires accessibility and active engagement with local communities.

Describing the new administration as one that would depart from past practices, the minister urged the council leaders to honor the trust placed in them by voters. He stated that having secured the people’s mandate, they now have a responsibility to deliver visible governance and meaningful development rather than focus on ceremonial appearances, insisting that the time had come for dedicated service to the public.