The Agatu Local Government Council has strongly responded to allegations and demands for accountability raised on social media by Facebook user, Comrade Aledu Simon, insisting that governance and public financial management cannot be reduced to online narratives.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Agatu LGA, Amb. Obochi Solomon, the council defended its record and accused critics of disregarding the institutional framework that guides public administration.
The council stressed that accountability in government is exercised through approved budgets, legislative oversight, audit procedures, procurement regulations, and other statutory mechanisms rather than through social media commentary. It warned against the “reduction of governance to social media sensationalism” while urging citizens to seek clarification through official channels.
The administration of the Executive Chairman, Hon. (Amb.) James Melvin Ejeh, reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, fiscal discipline, and prudent management of public resources. According to the statement, the council inherited a local government area plagued by insecurity, displacement, and deteriorating infrastructure, requiring urgent interventions to restore stability.
To justify its spending, the council highlighted several projects and initiatives undertaken since assuming office. These include the furnishing of the council secretariat and municipal offices, installation of solar-powered streetlights in Atakpa, provision of motorcycles and welfare support for security personnel, deployment of CCTV surveillance systems, renovation of the Anyam Nyôr Security Outpost in Obagaji, and collaboration with the Nigerian Army to establish a permanent military base between Ekaida and Egba communities.
In the education sector, achievements include the construction of a modern four-classroom primary school block in Atakpa equipped with a library, staff room, and ICT unit, as well as the phased renovation of Ikpele Primary School. The health sector saw a free medical and eye-care outreach in partnership with Vision Savers Eye Care Services Limited and the Benue State Government, relief assistance to internally displaced persons, and efforts to establish an annex of the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Oshigbudu.
The statement also referenced the ongoing Obagaji–Okokolo–Agagbe road project executed through a counterpart funding arrangement with the Benue State Government and peace-building initiatives aimed at resolving boundary disputes between Opatani and Omagede communities.
The Agatu Local Government Council reaffirmed its dedication to promoting peace, security, and sustainable development across the area.
