Delta Assembly Moves to Tighten LG Financial Controls

The Delta State House of Assembly has directed all 25 local government councils in the state to formulate strategies that will enhance financial controls, accountability, and effective management procedures for improved socio-economic development.

The resolution followed the adoption of seven recommendations by the House Committee on Public Accounts, chaired by Hon. James Augoye, during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.

Presenting the report on the Auditor-General (Local Government) review of the consolidated accounts of the councils for the year ending December 31, 2024, Hon. Augoye explained that the recommendations were made after intensive scrutiny to strengthen financial accountability at the grassroots level.

The House mandated councils to boost internal revenue generation to complement statutory allocations through strategic planning and realistic budgeting. It also called for the training of personnel handling accounting duties to address issues such as improper bookkeeping, delays in financial statements, poor investment records, and irregular bank reconciliations.

The Assembly further stressed strict adherence to guidelines on staff advances for projects, noting that advances beyond six months must not be allowed unless approved by the Executive Committee.

Additionally, lawmakers expressed concern over the non-implementation of the 2% monthly allocation for local government farm projects, as mandated by the Delta State Local Government Law, 2013, urging councils to set aside the funds in line with the state’s MORE agenda to benefit communities.

The House also directed the Office of the Auditor-General (Local Government) to engage in continuous audits to ensure timely financial reporting and accountability.

Hon. Augoye said:

“The numerous observations raised in the Auditor-General’s report and opinions expressed during public hearings were quite satisfactory. The assignment was challenging but enlightening, as it provided insight into deficiencies in council financial management.”

The report affirmed that the income and expenditure of the 25 local government councils as presented by the Auditor-General were true and valid.

The Committee chairman thanked the House for the opportunity to serve, emphasizing that the recommendations, once implemented, would strengthen transparency and financial discipline across the councils.