Proactive Vigilance: How Citizens can hold their government accountable
Oludotun Babayemi
July 18, 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
Hello, I think your website might be having browser compatibility issues.
When I look at your website in Firefox, it looks fine
but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.
I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that,
fantastic blog!
Awesome! Its genuinely amazing piece of writing,
I have got much clear idea about from this piece of writing.
When someone writes an piece of writing he/she keeps the idea of a user in his/her brain that how a
user can understand it. Thus that’s why this paragraph is perfect.
Thanks!
Selain itu LVSLOT88 sudah terpercaya dan dipercayai untuk rakyat indonesia sedari dulu dan tidak pernah berubah sampai sekarang dimana
masih banyak yang bermain dan lebih mengakse judi situs slot deposit pulsa tanpa potongan online disini.
Memang masih sedikit di bandingkan dengan provider slot online lainnya, akan tetapi semua jenis mesin slot dalam BBP ini mempunyai daya tarik tersendiri bagi peminatnya.
Minta pada tim support kami nomor yang akan menjadi tujuan pengiriman pulsa telkomsel
untuk melakukan deposit pulsa. Minta pada tim support kami nomor yang akan menjadi tujuan pengiriman pulsa
smartfren untuk melakukan deposit menggunakan pulsa.
Genuinely when someone doesn’t know after that its up to other
visitors that they will assist, so here it takes place.
I visited several sites but the audio feature for audio songs existing at this
site is really excellent.
Terrific work! That is the type of information that
are meant to be shared across the web. Disgrace
on the seek engines for no longer positioning this submit higher!
Come books on technical analysis of indian stock market over and consult with my web site .
Thanks =)
I go to see every day some web sites and blogs to read articles or reviews, but
this web site presents feature based articles.
I loved as much as you will receive carried out right here.
The sketch is tasteful, your authored material stylish.
nonetheless, you command get got an impatience over that you wish
be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come more formerly again as exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this hike.
I like the helpful information you provide in your
articles. I’ll bookmark your weblog and check again here frequently.
I’m quite sure I will learn many new stuff right here! Best of luck for the next!
Keep this going please, great job!
Thank you for any other magnificent post. Where else may anyone get that type of information in such an ideal approach of writing?
I have a presentation subsequent week, and I’m on the search for such information.
Thanks , I’ve just been looking for information about this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I have
found out till now. However, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you
sure in regards to the source?
You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but
I find this topic to be really something that I think I would never understand.
It seems too complex and extremely broad for
me. I am looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang
of it!
Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account
it. Look advanced to far added agreeable from you!
However, how can we communicate?
Excellent post. I used to be checking constantly this weblog
and I am inspired! Very useful info particularly the last section 🙂 I take care
of such info much. I used to be seeking this certain information for a
long time. Thank you and best of luck.
آلبوم ژورنال عروسی
آلبوم ژورنال عروسی امروزه بسیار برای عکاسان و آتلیه های عروسی مهم و یه بخش پول سازی
براشون هستش که همه عروس و داماد دوست دارند عکس های عروسی
و فرمالیته خود را خیلی شیک تو یه آلبوم
جدا داشته باشند. آلبوم های ژورنال عروسی واقعا یه آلبوم خاطرات عروسی ازش میشه یاد کرد که همه دوست دارند از روز عروسی خود و
مسافرت های عاشقانه با همسرشون رو یه آلبوم کنند و
تو خاطراتشون نگه دارند.کلمه ژورنال یک
کلمه فرانسوی هست و اگه خیلی ساده بگم یه آلبوم با
سایز های خیلی متفاوت که عکس های عروس
و دامادی با چاپ و کیفیت های متفاوت هستش.
What i do not understood is in fact how you’re now not really a
lot more well-favored than you may be right now. You are
so intelligent. You realize therefore considerably in the case of this topic,
made me in my opinion imagine it from so many numerous angles.
Its like women and men are not involved unless it’s something to do with
Woman gaga! Your individual stuffs great. All the time handle it up!
Magnificent website. Lots of helpful information here.
I’m sending it to a few buddies ans additionally sharing in delicious.
And obviously, thank you to your effort!
Hey there! Do you know if they make any plugins to protect against hackers?
I’m kinda paranoid about losing everything I’ve worked
hard on. Any suggestions?
Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed browsing your blog posts.
In any case I will be subscribing to your feed and I hope you write
again soon!
Hola! I’ve been following your site for some time now and finally
got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Austin Tx!
Just wanted to mention keep up the fantastic job!
I like the helpful info you provide in your articles. I will bookmark your weblog and check again here frequently.
I am quite certain I’ll learn plenty of new stuff right here!
Best of luck for the next!
Hi, i feel that i saw you visited my web site so i got here to
go back the favor?.I’m trying to to find issues to improve my site!I guess its ok to use
some of your concepts!!
Spot on with this write-up, I truly believe that this
amazing site needs much more attention. I’ll probably be returning
to read through more, thanks for the info!
In tutta fretta Nike realizzò un prototipo speciale
della Ship, adattandone il paneling e sostituendo la sole unit tradizionale con quella della Pro Circuit, un modello da tennis
prodotto dallo Swoosh a metà anni ’80 (è la misteriosa scarpa che MJ
indossa insieme al gesso nel 1985, visibile anche in “The Last Dance”).
I used to also only skate vans and I’m predicting they’ll last double as long as the vans, but I also paid almost double of what I pay for Pro Vans.
I used to use simple low vans, but after a month
of learning how to do tricks like ollie they started to make holes in the side
of the shoe that is used to do the slide. The present stadium is one of three stadiums to have used the name.
Google’s search suggestions can also tip you off
if you have a reputation management problem on your hands.
I can update you once i start getting some wear on them.
Thank you, I’ve just been searching for info about this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I’ve discovered so far.
However, what concerning the conclusion? Are you certain in regards
to the supply?
Hi, constantly i used to check web site posts here in the
early hours in the morning, as i enjoy to find out more and more.
When I originally commented I seem to have clicked the -Notify me when new
comments are added- checkbox and from now on whenever a comment is added I get four emails with the same comment.
Is there an easy method you are able to remove me from that service?
Appreciate it!
You have wonderful info here.
https://www.nowytydzien.pl
Hello, I enjoy reading through your article post. I wanted to write a little comment to support you.
CBD Oil for Tennis Elbow
Visit mу web pɑge … Get $20? Here’S Everything You Need To Know About Referring Your Friends
I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet viewers, its really really good article on building up new website.
Keep on working, great job!
We are a gaggle of volunteers and starting a brand new scheme in our community.
Your website provided us with helpful information to work on. You have
performed an impressive process and our whole community can be grateful to you.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on urgency. Regards
Foor most up-to-date information you have to pay a quick visit internet and on web I found this web
site as a best website for latest updates.
Also visit my webpage – A片
Howdy! This is kind of off topic but I need some advice from an established blog.
Is it very difficult to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast.
I’m thinking about creating my own but I’m not sure where to
begin. Do you have any tips or suggestions? Thanks
This info is worth everyone’s attention. Where can I find out more?
WOW just what I was looking for. Came here by searching for 먹튀검증
Cool web page you have in here.
https://www.pewnybiznes.info
You’re a very useful site; could not make
it without ya!
https://www.lubelska.tv
I was suggested this web site by my cousin. I am not
sure whether this post is written by him as nobody else know such detailed about my difficulty.
You’re incredible! Thanks!
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 designer to create your theme?
Superb work!
I enjoy this website – its so usefull and helpfull.
https://www.polskapraca.info
Great website! It looks really good! Sustain the good job!
https://radomsko24.pl
Hi every one, here every person is sharing these familiarity, thus it’s fastidious to read this website,
and I used to visit this blog all the time.
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a really well
written article. I’ll be sure to bookmark it and return to
read more of your useful info. Thanks for the post.
I will definitely comeback.
Before you purchase a new saddle, measure your leg length and seat measurement.
A 16-inch size saddle will be sufficient if you have a
short leg. For longer legs, you should aim for
at least 17 inches. A 17-inch saddle is possible for those with a longer leg.
A larger seat size should be between 18 and 19 inches. Remember,
the saddle pad must be at least one inch larger than its size.
Before buying a horse saddle, find out the horse’s measurements.
A standard size saddle will fit an average-sized
horse. However, you may need a saddle with a wider
gullet for a larger horse. Your horse’s breed will also impact the
size of your saddle’s opening. An Arabian horse’s back is,
for example, narrower than a Thoroughbred. Consult your trainer to get an exact measurement.
First, determine the horse’s conformation to find the
right size saddle. It is important to scan your horse from side to side, as well as from the front.
A horse with narrow withers may require extra padding behind the saddle bars.
A shoulder bridge pad is recommended to ensure the proper
fit. A medium-to-wide tree will usually suffice for
a horse with a moderate to large wither. A horse with average to flat withers, however,
will require a large tree.
If you’re between two sizes go up. Most saddles are available in 17-inch
sizes. Smaller saddles can cause discomfort.
Consider the type of riding that you’ll be doing.
Saddles designed for leisure riding may be shallower and more
comfortable, while those intended for barrel racing
or ranch work will need to be deeper and wider. If you’re unsure, try the
same measurements as men.
Western saddles come with different sizes of seats. The Western saddle seat size measures
approximately four inches wider than an average adult
saddle. If you are too tall, you may need to change your size.
A shorter rider might require a larger seat or vice versa.
You will find the right size saddle for you, depending on your weight and height.
Before you buy a saddle for your horse, you’ll need to measure and weigh
yourself.
If you are unsure about your thighbone measurements, you
can try on a few saddles to find the one that best fits your thigh bone.
Western saddle seat sizes are generally one to two inches smaller than English saddles.
If in doubt, order a size larger. The best rule of thumb is measuring
at the saddle’s nail. This nail is located at the saddle’s top.
The saddle’s seat size is the highest point on the
cantle.
Hello to every one, it’s in fact a good for me to visit this site, it
includes valuable Information.