Prof Yomi Akindele-Oscar, the Director, Quality Assurance of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, has a accused state governments of being the main impediment to local government autonomy in the country.
Speaking as a Guest Speaker at the Annual Retreat And Award Ceremony of Association of Ex-LG Chairmen of Nigeria (ASELGON) held in Lagos during the week, Prof. Akindele-Oscar argued that many state governors have consistently undermined the financial independence and decision-making powers of local government councils.
In his submission, Prof Akindele-Oscar whose speech was themed; "LG Autonomy, Bringing Governance and Economic Development Close to The People: A case study of Lagos State", maintained that one of the major issues is the diversion of federal allocations meant for local governments.
He noted that state governments often withhold these funds or release them in small tranches, limiting the ability of local councils to implement development projects.
Prof Akindele-Oscar pleaded that Local government officials should be provided with the necessary training and resources to effectively manage their responsibilities, adding that local governments too should encourage public participation in decision making processes to ensure transparency and accountability.
"By addressing these issues, Nigeria can empower local governments to deliver better services to their communities and promote sustainable development", he said.
Prof Akindele-Oscas also pointed out that state governors have frequently dissolved democratically elected local government councils and replaced them with caretaker committees, often citing various reasons such as poor performance or security concerns, he said.
However, critics have seen these actions as politically motivated, aimed at consolidating power, Oscar added.
Former Ijebu North/Ijebu East/Ogun Waterside House of Representative lawmaker, Hon Adekoya Adesegun while speaking with journalists also pointed out that local governments have become increasingly politicized, focusing more on national politics than local issues which has led to a decline in governance and accountability at the local level.
The Coalition hailed the recent Supreme Court judgment, which granted local governments more financial autonomy as a significant step forward but warned that state governments may still find ways to circumvent the ruling and maintain control over local finances.
He advised that Local government officials should possess strong leadership qualities, including integrity, honesty, and a commitment to public service.
Local governments should also have the authority and determination to generate their own revenue and allocate funds without interference from state governments.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of ASELGON,
Hon Albert Asipa commended the Lagos State Government for its commitment to local government autonomy, citing it as a model for other states.
He also expressed gratitude to the members who have contributed to the association's growth and success.
He noted that the retreat served as a platform for members to discuss various issues related to local government administration, including financial autonomy, capacity building, and accountability, explaining that ASELGON emphasized the importance of empowering local governments to deliver effective services to their constituents.
The association reiterated its support for the recent Supreme Court judgment, which granted local governments more financial independence. They called on state governments to fully implement the ruling and allow local governments to exercise their constitutional rights.
ASELGON also outlined its plans to actively participate in national politics, advocating for policies that promote good governance and development at the local level. They aim to leverage their experience and knowledge to contribute to the nation's progress.
By strengthening local government autonomy, ASELGON believes that Nigeria can achieve greater economic development, social justice, and political stability.
Other recognition awards includes, Governor of the Year for Exceptional Performance in Sustenance of Local Govt Autonomy to Gov Babajide Sanwoolu, Best performing Senator for Empowering Grassroots and Exceptional performance in Legislative duties to Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Community Development Champion award for outstanding contributions to Grassroots Sport development to Hin Kunle Soname among others.
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