The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, the Chairman has expressed his displeasure with the activities of revenue agents in the area, accusing them of feeding fat on the local governmentโs commonwealth at the expense of its development. He described their actions as financial rascality, fraud, and a high level of embezzlement.
Speaking during a meeting at the Council Hall on Friday 22nd November, 2024 with the revenue agents, Hon. Akposi revealed shocking cases of financial mismanagement and default. โFrom available records, all the revenue agents have defaulted and are owing huge sums to the council. Your actions have not reflected the growth we seek as a local government. Some of you have not paid your dues for months, and others for years,โ he stated.
The chairman, visibly angered by what he termed โfinancial anarchy,โ accused the agents of operating as though the local government was a banana republic. He condemned the creation of factions to cover up fraudulent activities, describing it as an affront to ethical governance. โPublic funds are not personal funds, and being an agent is not an entitlement to thievery. It is a responsibility to contribute to the growth and development of Akamkpa,โ he added.
Despite his criticisms, Hon. Akposi assured the agents that his goal was not to fight anyone but to reform the revenue collection system by enshrining an ethical code. He emphasised the importance of resolving differences and fostering unity to achieve the desired development for the local government. โWe must resolve all our differences and build the Akamkpa we want. If you are owing us, be truthful. State your challenges and let us know where we are. But if I discover your deceit through investigation, we will be at war,โ he warned.
The chairman also expressed gratitude to God for liberating the council by bringing in a neutral leadership to address the rot in the system. He pledged to leave an indelible mark on the sands of time and urged everyone to cooperate. โDonโt be the Judas that wants to frustrate us. I am ready to sacrifice for the growth of Akamkpa,โ he said.
Hon. Akposi extended his warning to local government staff, cautioning them against cutting corners or engaging in underhand dealings. He vowed to deal decisively with both staff and revenue agents found culpable. โLet this be a clear warning: I will not tolerate any form of malpractice. We are here to serve Akamkpa, not to exploit it,โ he asserted.
In response, the revenue agents expressed remorse and assured the chairman of their readiness to make amends. They pledged to begin remittances to the council starting Monday, promising to align with the chairmanโs vision for a transparent and accountable revenue system.
The chairmanโs firm stance marks a significant step towards reclaiming the financial integrity of Akamkpa Local Government Area. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that public funds are used judiciously for the benefit of the people.
Hon. Akposi concluded the meeting by urging the agents and staff to embrace a new era of accountability and transparency. โLet us rebuild Akamkpa together. This is our home, and its success depends on each of us doing the right thing,โ he declared.
The meeting, though tense, ended on a hopeful note, with all parties agreeing to work collectively to restore the councilโs financial health and drive the development of Akamkpa.
