Proactive Vigilance: How Citizens can hold their government accountable
Oludotun Babayemi
18 July 2016
“Abeg, you cannot come and fix a programme that will start at 8 am on a Saturday morning, I will not be able to attend, please postpone it for another day or cancel it” responded Ijiwere to her colleagues, who wanted to visit another friend; “Let me tell you, If you want me to come for that ‘owambe’ party on Saturday, then you should let it start at 10 am” affirmed Giringori, to his friends who were planning an event for Saturday.
“Imagine, those my friend wanted to suggest 8 am as a time for that party, I totally disagreed, and told them Jigida will be aired on radio at that time, and that is the only way I can report the lack of water in Kagara” said Giringori to his elder brother – Ijiwere.
These are the kind of conversations that go on in Kagara community, with everyone looking forward to Jigida, a weekly, one – hour radio programme that allows for citizens to call – in and express their community needs, which afterwards are been documented and sent to the various local government chairmen, and State House of Representative for response and decisions to be made. That’s not all, the first 30 mins of the programme is dedicated to the Councillor of the community sharing with the community, how much and what they will be spending on in the week. This is what proactive vigilance is all about!
Although proactive vigilance or public participation in budgeting or government spending is relatively new, the evidence attesting to its impact on resource allocation and service delivery is growing. Many of the existing findings are based on the well-known Brazilian experience with participatory budgeting, established first in Porte Alegre in 1989, and now replicated in over 40 countries around the world. Nigeria, is not left out as well, as its government hopes to encourage citizen participation, with its recent commitment to joining the Open Government Partnership, a multilateral initiative that aims to secure concrete commitments from governments to promote transparency, empower citizens, fight corruption, and harness new technologies to strengthen governance.
You might be wondering, how many – landlord associations,vigilante groups, market women associations, community development associations, we have in rural communities. A lot of them! When are we going to start having “project vigilante” in rural communities, that will become voices of several communities, because by the time you wake up tomorrow morning, the news will be agog with “one billion dollars to be released to provide water in Kagara” only to go to Kagara after one year, you will find out that Kagara has no water source or a broken water source. Quite pathetic, and that’s is the way we are – the leaders and followers.
Nevertheless, I am excited that the Story Story writers at BBC Media Action are focusing on how citizens at the local government level, can be proactively vigilant on such issues of government spending in their communities, and I recently had some hours of session brainstorming with the crew, on how citizens can become vigilant themselves, I hope all will be reflected in their popular radio drama coming up sometimes in fall. Thanks to Nkem, our Reseach Lead on government finance, who took some notes on the highlights, and I have added them below:
Citizens can at every stage of this budget cycle engage their various government, but limited participation is expected during during formulation
- There is the local government or state government budget, a document that highlights government spending and revenue which can be for a financial year, or a multiyear.
- The Budget has its on cycle starting from formulation (when Ministry, Department, Agencies, put together their budget), to enactment (when the national or state legislative arm assent to the budget), to implementation (the stage at which contractors start executing projects in your communities), and lastly, the assessment stage (where everyone assesses the implementation of the budget, to provide feedback on how the next stage should look like)
- At every stage of the budget, citizens can make noise about their plight, and join in the conversation. They can form themselves as vigilante group or association, and always knock on the door of their local government officer or Councillor.
- They can forward a freedom of information request letter to the local government chairman to request for their budget immediately it passes the enactment stage, and even ask more question like who is the contractor, what is the work plan for the project, how much is the contractor getting, and when will the project be concluded. Here is an example of a freedom of information letter if you want to write one
- Government at the local government and state government level should starting providing platforms as well, for the assesement stage. E.g. using local radio programmes like Jigida, create a referendum mechanism for your local government area for people to have their say on projects proposed for next financial year. It should not be only during elections, that citizens see chairmen of local government or governors of states canvassing for votes.
- Like I always say, the budget is not only the means by which government declare their spending, in fact 50% – 60% of what’s on it might not be relevant. The other way is to always listen to the state news on your local radio, projects will be announced at all times, especially when they are project funded by other partners, such as the federal government or international donor agencies.
Ijiwere and Giringori have decided to do away with social gatherings, and focus on becoming a vigilante for community projects in Jigida, and if you are reading this, you should be towing same way, and you should share this piece. I look forward to the final drama series on this – If you have listened to Story Story, Voices from the Market program, then you should be more expectant. See you all in Kagara town, listening to Jigida on radio!
From left, Oludotun Babayemi, Nkem and the BBC Media Action Writers
Thank you for sharing your info. I really appreciate your efforts and I will be waiting for your next post thanks once again.
thanks a lot a whole lot this excellent website is formal
and laid-back
Remember tһat both the point spread and also the money lіne are reflections of betting aсtion, mɑy not be compսlsory thе ѕkill
of a team. This means that the effortless who bet on one
team, the more the bookmakers will shift tһe lines to favor
the սnderdogs.
Tip#2: You ᴡould like to alwаys keep a keen eye оn they composition. Acquіring
that possess to the latest news on injuries to key charаcters.
All these small things are what help you with sucϲess
in online soccer betting.
If in order to intent about studying each team’s lineuрs, then discover also anticipate the ѕtandard back-up systems in each
team (tһis has more to do with their alternate strategieѕ).
Such small ѕuch as these can tip consequence of the overall game in favor of one team insｅcts other.
Evidently, this appear in other sporting activities too.
Another starting point go for advice аre spoгt betting strategies.
These ѕystems offeг advice on not necessarily what gаmеs to put your money on, but aԀditionally which team and line to choose up.
The betting is based entirely on mathematical and statistical
analүsis which кeeps the human emotion element out in the equation. This human emotion is brings about many
traffic to loѕe bets as they bet their own heart, as
their favorite team, instead of betting their own ƅrain, crｅating a smart betting
decіsion. sρort betting systems offer the winning percentage among avaiⅼable options and unlimited picks.
Next, continue in one rosters’ changes and wellbeing. Keep in mind right now there are drafts and teаm transfers that occur.
These changes will significantly impаct
thе outcomes of thе gaming appliｃations. Aⅼsߋ find out if there are injuries, discover wһo traditional are, and also the way long before they should go bɑck
to action.
Tһe situation is slightly differеnt with spread betting on the over under goаl spot.
Each goal is worth a connected with points. For example, goal is worth a
one thing. The spread betting company predicts how many points
become scored. A standard spread will probably be 2.2 to two.5 points.
Witһ spread betting person bets pеr point regarԁing a fixed ѕtakｅ.
Winnings can be magnified ɑnd ɑs a consequence
can loѕs.
Some solutions to find good sρoгtsbook too as handicapping service or sources of free pickѕ
is to see reviews and just to jߋin forums.
There are many reviews aƄout spοrtsbook and handicapping seгvices
on broad. Most bettors have blogs or ϳournaⅼs that
company to record their experiences on different sportsbook as
well as handicapрers. By reading theіr reviews, you will know the best
sportsbooks along witһ the most reliable handicappers. Some bettors likewise
share some sources of free rｅliable piсks. Grab this time.
Υou can also find just aѕ kinds of knowledge at foгumѕ or
mеssage boards. Search net and noticing surely find a lot оf foгums and discussіons ɑbout football betting.
On another hand, betting is another actіvity that’s been paгt quite a few peopⅼe’s lives since time immemorial.
Many people find it exciting tο put a certɑin amoᥙnt of funds something.
Involving winning funds or losing your the budget is very exϲiting for
you will fіnd.
Have a looқ at my blog :: Fifagoalclub [Instapaper.Com]
http://serial.sezons.store
I am really loving the theme/design of your weblog. Do you ever run into any browser compatibility issues?
A couple of my blog visitors have complained about my website not operating correctly in Explorer but looks great in Chrome.
Do you have any recommendations to help fix this problem?
No matter if some one searches for his essential thing, therefore he/she needs to be available that in detail, therefore that thing is maintained over here.
Everyone loves what you guys tend to be up too.
This kind of clever work and exposure! Keep up the terrific works guys I’ve added you guys to my blogroll.
Hello there! This blog post couldn’t be written any better!
Reading through this post reminds me of my previous roommate!
He always kept preaching about this. I most certainly will send
this post to him. Fairly certain he will have a great read.
Many thanks for sharing!
It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d certainly donate to
this fantastic blog! I suppose for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS
feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will share this site with my
Facebook group. Chat soon!
We stumbled over here different web address and thought
I might check things out. I like what I see so now i am following you.
Look forward to finding out about your web page for a second time.
Hey there! This is my first visit to your blog!
We are a collection of volunteers and starting a new project in a community
in the same niche. Your blog provided us valuable information to work on. You have done a marvellous job!
What’s Happening i’m new to this, I stumbled upon this I’ve
discovered It absolutely useful and it has aided me out loads.
I’m hoping to give a contribution & aid other customers like its
aided me. Good job.
I really like what you guys are up too. This kind of clever work and coverage!
Keep up the awesome works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to my personal
blogroll.
Here is my site – monthly calendar printable April
%%
Also visit my site :: 1taz.ir
Hi there! This post couldn’t be written much better! Going through this article reminds me of my
previous roommate! He constantly kept preaching
about this. I am going to forward this information to him.
Pretty sure he’s going to have a good read. Thank you for sharing!
Take a look at my web page … Keto Diet Plan
Hey there! Someone in my Facebook group shared
this site with us so I came to check it out. I’m definitely enjoying
the information. I’m bookmarking and will be tweeting this to
my followers! Excellent blog and terrific style and design.
Yesterday, while I was at work, my sister stole my iphone and tested to see
if it can survive a 40 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views.
I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
I must thank you for the efforts you have put in penning this website.
I am hoping to check out the same high-grade content by you later on as well.
In truth, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own, personal site now ;
)
Asking questions are in fact good thing if you are not understanding something completely,
but this paragraph offers good understanding even.
Having read this I thought it was really enlightening.
I appreciate you spending some time and effort to put this content together.
I once again find myself personally spending a lot of
time both reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worth it!
It’s not my first time to pay a visit this
website, i am visiting this site dailly and obtain good data
from here daily.
Nice post. I used to be checking constantly this
blog and I’m impressed! Extremely helpful info particularly
the ultimate phase 🙂 I maintain such info
much. I used to be looking for this certain info for a long time.
Thank you and good luck.
I’m really enjoying the design and layout of your site.
It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it
much more pleasant for me to come here and visit more often. Did
you hire out a developer to create your theme?
Outstanding work!
buy viagra online
I was suggested this website via my cousin. I am now not sure whether this publish is written by him as no one
else know such detailed approximately my problem. You are amazing!
Thanks!
http://serial.sezons.store
Definitely believe that which you stated. Your favorite reason seemed to be
on the web the simplest thing to be aware of.
I say to you, I definitely get annoyed while
people think about worries that they just don’t know about.
You managed to hit the nail upon the top as well as defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people can take a signal.
Will probably be back to get more. Thanks
Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wished to
say that I have truly enjoyed surfing around your blog
posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss
feed and I hope you write again soon!
Feel free to surf to my site: https://bvespirita.com/
Do you mind if I quote a few of your posts as long as
I provide credit and sources back to your weblog?
My blog is in the very same area of interest as yours and my users would certainly
benefit from some of the information you provide here. Please
let me know if this ok with you. Regards!
my web-site; calendario abril
whoah this weblog is magnificent i love reading your articles.
Stay up the good work! You already know, a lot of individuals
are hunting round for this info, you could aid them greatly.
Touche. Sound arguments. Keep up the amazing
effort.
If some one desires expert view regarding blogging afterward i propose him/her to
pay a quick visit this webpage, Keep up the pleasant job.
My blog – HeatWell Heater
I have been exploring for a little for any high quality articles
or blog posts in this sort of area . Exploring in Yahoo I finally stumbled upon this website.
Studying this information So i am glad to express that I have an incredibly good uncanny feeling I discovered just what I needed.
I such a lot certainly will make sure to do not put
out of your mind this site and provides it
a look on a continuing basis.
I think this is one of the so much important info for me.
And i’m happy reading your article. But wanna remark on few general things, The web site taste is ideal, the articles is
in point of fact excellent : D. Excellent task, cheers
Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though
you relied on the video to make your point. You obviously know what youre talking about, why throw away your intelligence on just
posting videos to your weblog when you could be giving us something informative to read?
http://serial.sezons.store
Superb, what a webpage it is! This website presents useful facts to us,
keep it up.
Hey! This is kind of off topic but I need some advice from an established blog.
Is it hard to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but
I can figure things out pretty fast. I’m thinking about making my own but I’m not sure
where to start. Do you have any tips or suggestions?
Many thanks
My web page Mortgage Broker
Hi, this weekend is fastidious for me, as this point in time i am reading this great educational paragraph here at my home.
Generally hint housekeepers and bell station.
Amazing! This blog looks exactly like my old one!
It’s on a totally different subject but it has
pretty much the same layout and design. Wonderful choice of colors!
Visit my homepage – 63카지노
What’s up, I check your new stuff like every week. Your humoristic style is witty, keep doing what you’re doing!
Feel free to visit my website … discount
Какие грибов сунуть в лапу новичку психонавту
касательно психодислептических грибах выпито щебетать уничтожающе, но и
около данной медали заговляться теневая
сторона. на средине ХХ столетия, время
от времени псилоцибин живете исследовался много независимое азибензил, его употребляли ради исцеления наркомании, тревожных расстройств, депрессии.
С его подмогой облагораживали состояние жизни пациентом неправильно получи и
распишись остатних стадиях болезни, ликвидировали предсуицидальное состояние,
помогали заболевшим алкоголизмом.
Новые открытия буква мед слою
сковаться льдом толчком для этому значительные гроверов уложили поручить полемики псилоцибиновых грибов
а также испить себя на последней важности миколога.
иду пду пдходят агенты семейства
Psylocibe Cubensis. Их чуть заметно служить стимулом,
данные штаммы видимо-невидимо закупает квалифицированная немощей, затем сбор услаждает включая количеством самих грибов,
да вхождением псилоцибина.
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it.
Look advanced to more added agreeable from you! By the way, how could we communicate?
My website: calculator with history screen
For most recent news you have to visit internet and on world-wide-web I found this site as a best web
site for newest updates.
Magnificent beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your site,
how could i subscribe for a blog site? The account aided me
a acceptable deal. I had been tiny bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear concept
Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as
though you relied on the video to make your point.
You clearly know what youre talking about, why waste your intelligence on just posting videos to your site when you could be giving us something enlightening to read?
http://serial.sezons.store
I am not sure where you are getting your
information, but great topic. I needs to spend some
time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for excellent information I was looking for this information for my mission.
my web-site :: collision coverage
Hey there I am so delighted I found your web site,
I really found you by error, while I was searching on Yahoo for something else, Nonetheless I am here now and would just like to say thanks for a fantastic post and a all round entertaining blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have
time to look over it all at the minute but I have book-marked it and also included your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be
back to read a lot more, Please do keep up the great jo.