From Yakubu Wuyep, Jos
The Forum of Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the Executive Chairman of Bassa Local Government Area has passed a vote of confidence on the Chairman, Hon Dr Joshua Sunday Riti, over his performance in the last two years.
In a statement issued in Jos, the forum said it was satisfied with the chairman’s leadership, citing his numerous projects, staff welfare and grassroots reform programmes targeted at vulnerable communities in the council.
According to the forum, its review of interventions in security coordination, results management and stakeholder engagement across the districts showed significant improvement.
”Dr. Joshua Sunday Riti has earned our confidence. We are aware that when Riti assumed office as Executive Chairman, there were questions about his independence. But democracy requires that we judge people by their conduct. Today, after observing the performance of the Executive Chairman, we say: judge him by what he has done,” the statement read.
The forum said the chairman has demonstrated qualitative leadership, engaged stakeholders transparently and maintained active preparations for peacebuilding and governance.
It noted that public confidence has been restored and urged the chairman to maintain higher standards in rebuilding peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in Bassa LGA.
The SSAs commended the chairman for improving staff welfare through salary increment and a transparent, performance-based promotion system, describing it as evidence of effective governance.
”We’ve seen many improvements. Bassa LGA has gone beyond lip service. It has become a symbol of effective governance; a role model that other councils should emulate. He doesn’t just talk; he delivers,” the forum stated.
The forum also commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang, noting that the council has begun to enjoy the dividends of local government autonomy in financial management.
It urged personnel to maintain neutrality and called on residents of Bassa to support the administration, while urging Nigerians to remain active in holding institutions accountable.