The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective grassroots governance with the presentation of laptops computers to the Directors of the Central Internal Audit Departments across the state’s local governments.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who presented the gadget at an event held at the Local government service commission in Ado, said the move was to further equip the auditors with necessary tools for effective performance.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Niyi Adebayo, Oyebanji explained that the State cannot afford to be left behind in the global technological advancement, hence the need for the presentation.
He explained that the provision of laptops was to strengthen the capacity of internal auditors and improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability at the local government level.
The governor charged the auditors to maximize the use of the laptops and assured them of continued support through training and retraining to enhance professionalism and the adoption of modern auditing methods.
He urged public officers to see auditors as partners in progress rather than adversaries, stressing that proper audits strengthen institutions and promote collective development.
Mr Oyebanji also encouraged local government staff to demonstrate genuine support for his administration by ensuring they possess valid voter’s cards, ahead of the June 2026 elections.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Mr. Samuel Abejide, said the procurement and distribution of the computer systems further demonstrated the Commission’s zero-tolerance to financial impropriety.
He urged the audit staff to remain steadfast, uphold professional standards, and refuse to compromise their integrity.
Mr. Abejide reaffirmed that the LGSC remains steadfastly committed to the Governor’s administration and will continue to uphold its vision and mission of improving lives at the grassroots.
The Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Mrs. Titilayo Toba-Ojo, described the event as more than a ceremonial milestone, saying it was a moment for reflection, stock-taking, and renewed resolve.
She recalled that the establishment of the Central Internal Audit Department two years ago was a bold and forward-looking unit aimed at strengthening internal control systems and entrenching financial discipline across local governments, Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), the LG Pension Transitional Arrangement Department (LG PTAD), the LG Loans Board, and the Local Government Service Commission.
According to her, the department has evolved from a conceptual reform into a functional and impactful institution within a relatively short period, attributing the success to the visionary leadership and unwavering support of Governor Oyebanji.
In his response, the Executive Secretary of the Central Internal Audit Department, Mr. Olowolade Femi, expressed appreciation to the Governor for his support.
He disclosed that when the Governor assumed office, there were only 42 Directors across local governments, a figure that has now increased to 572 personnel statewide.
He added that the structure of the local government has also been strengthened, with the number of Executive Secretaries increasing from six to seven, while the number of Permanent Secretaries rose from one to three.
He also acknowledged the support received from the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, noting that the progress recorded was largely due to the Chairman’s consistent recommendations and backing.
As part of the event, Governor Biodun Oyebanji was presented with an award in recognition of his outstanding support and contributions to the growth and effectiveness of the Central Internal Audit Department.
The award was received on his behalf by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Affairs, Chief Jide Awe.
The programme was attended by members of the Local Government Service Commission Board, Permanent Secretaries, all 16 Local Government Chairmen and their LCDA Chairmen, Heads of Local Government administration HLAs and LCDAs, as well as Directors of the Central Internal Audit Departments.
By omolara Oladija
Information
