Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Wednesday swore in the 21 newly elected Local Government Council Chairmen in Adamawa State, charging them to remain in their respective local government areas and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.

The governor also congratulated the 226 newly elected councillors and the people of Adamawa State for their continued commitment to grassroots democracy.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Fintiri described the successful conduct of the recent local government elections as another milestone in the state’s democratic journey.

He commended the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC) for conducting what he described as a credible, peaceful and transparent election across the state’s 21 local government areas.

The governor noted that his administration has successfully conducted four local government elections within seven years, describing the feat as unprecedented in the history of the state.

Fintiri urged the newly inaugurated council chairmen to work closely with traditional rulers and Development Area Administrators to strengthen public confidence in government and promote greater community participation in governance.

He also warned against absentee leadership, insisting that the chairmen must reside and discharge their responsibilities from their respective local government headquarters rather than operate from the state capital.

“I don’t want to be seeing your faces here at the state capital. Stay at your primary assignments. Give full attention to your own people who voted you into power,” the governor said.

Fintiri further cautioned the council chairmen to strictly adhere to the principles of transparency, accountability and responsible use of public funds, noting that citizens are increasingly aware of how government resources are managed.

According to him, residents are now more conscious of public expenditure and are capable of tracking government spending, adding that they will continue to demand accountability for funds allocated for development projects.

The governor expressed confidence that the newly elected officials would justify the confidence reposed in them by delivering quality leadership and development at the grassroots.