Isiyaku Ahmed
The Kano State Open Government Partnership (OGP) Secretariat has dismissed allegations of irregularities in the composition of the state’s OGP Steering Committee, describing the claims by some civil society organizations (CSOs) as a misunderstanding of the process.
In a rejoinder signed and issued to newsmen on Friday by the Government Co-Chair, Comrade Nura Iro Ma’aji, the Secretariat clarified that the recent event held in Kano State was solely the inauguration of government representatives on the committee, not the full Steering Committee comprising both government and CSO members.
According to the rejoinder, the CSO Co-Chair was duly invited and present at the event, serving as a witness and partner in line with the principles of multi-stakeholder collaboration.
The Secretariat further reiterated the commitment of the state government under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to the OGP principle of co-creation, which ensures that both government and CSOs jointly develop policies and commitments that reflect citizens’ needs.
It explained that, in accordance with international OGP guidelines, the government is responsible for nominating its representatives, while CSOs independently select their members based on thematic areas such as access to information, anti-corruption, citizen engagement, and service delivery.
The rejoinder also acknowledged the existence of the current CSO Steering Committee, noting that its tenure is nearing completion and expressing readiness to collaborate with newly elected representatives once the process is concluded.
While calling for constructive engagement, the Secretariat urged stakeholders to utilize official communication channels and avoid public statements that could create unnecessary tension.
It emphasized that the inauguration of government representatives should be seen as a step forward in strengthening transparency and accountability, rather than an act of exclusion.
“The Kano State Government remains committed to the Open Government Partnership as a transformative platform for accountable governance. CSOs are indispensable partners in this journey,” the statement added.
