By Daniel Tyokua
The Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Maikalangu, has urged the newly sworn-in councillors representing the council’s 12 political wards not to shy away from their constituents because of the pressures associated with public office.
Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of the 10th Legislative Assembly of the council, Maikalangu advised the councillors to remain accessible to the people who elected them and to regularly relay their concerns and challenges to the council leadership.
He reminded them of their responsibility to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and described them as his “foot soldiers” at the grassroots level.
“You are special because you will spend four years in office. Submit yourselves to your people, listen to their cries, and be responsive to their needs. You are my foot soldiers in your respective wards.
“Work in a way that your people will feel your impact. There will always be pressure from the electorate, but do not run away from them because they voted you into office.”
The AMAC chairman also urged the councillors to respect the constitution and maintain the confidentiality required in government affairs.
He cautioned them against actions that could create unnecessary legislative bottlenecks and hinder development within the council.
Maikalangu congratulated the newly elected Speaker of the Assembly, Mr. Yunana Ishaya of Gui Ward, describing the election of the council’s leadership as a call to service accompanied by significant responsibilities.
He urged the 10th Assembly to immediately commence its legislative duties and place the interests of the people above political differences.
“I hereby advise you to shun unnecessary legislative bottlenecks that are capable of frustrating developmental projects and programmes that are beneficial to the people,” he warned.
“We should also shun all forms of selfishness, ethnic and religious bigotry.”
The chairman further expressed his desire for a cordial and productive relationship between the executive and legislative arms of the council to facilitate the delivery of democratic dividends to residents at the grassroots.
The oath of office was administered on the councillors by Barrister Ayodele Gbenga-Shona.
