‎Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu has directed Local Government officials involved in the diversion of the N30,000 sallah gifts approved for workers to return the money with immediate effect.

The governor, who gave the warning in Sokoto, said there would be serious consequences on those involved.

“I wonder how somebody would deny our workers the stipends we gave them in order to make them financially stable during the Sallah festive season.

“Those who diverted those funds must return them immediately or else we will take serious punitive measures against them.

“We will ensure that the culprits reap what they sowed to serve as a deterrent to others.”

The governor directed that all workers not given the N30,000 stipend must be paid immediately.

He also assured that the government would not compromise accountability, transparency and the prudence in the management of public funds for the good of all.

“This administration is all out to ensure zero-tolerance for corruption and all corrupt tendencies.

“So, if anybody thinks he can loot public funds and gets away with it then, he must be sick.

“This administration is a true reflection of the government of the people, for the people, and indeed by the people.

“So, we have a huge task ahead of us that we must carry out diligently without minding whose ox is gored,” Aliyu emphasised.