Inadequate Funding Hindering Local Government Autonomy
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has identified inadequate funding as a critical challenge impeding the autonomy and effectiveness of local governments in Nigeria.
Speaking at the National Dialogue on Local Government Reform and Constitutional Amendment in Abuja, Abbas, represented by Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, stressed that financial constraints have left local governments unable to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sanitation.
He stated:
“Local governments often operate on budgets that are insufficient to meet their responsibilities. This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services.”
Highlighting the importance of autonomy, Abbas added:
“Local governments must operate with a degree of autonomy that allows them to respond promptly and appropriately to the unique needs of their communities.”
Local Government Elections Described as ‘Disgraceful’
Speaker Abbas also criticized the poor conduct of local government elections across Nigerian states, describing the process as a “disgrace” that undermines democratic principles.
He lamented that despite the constitution’s intent to establish an effective local government system, issues such as:
- Inadequate funding
- Lack of autonomy
- Interference by higher levels of government
- Corruption
…continue to hinder the functionality of local councils.
Abbas emphasized the dominance of ruling parties in local elections, where all positions are often swept uncontested, undermining democracy. He called for a reform of the electoral process to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity.
He stated:
“When elections are characterized by a lack of competitiveness—where the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles. This scenario poses a significant threat to our democracy and fosters an environment where incapable individuals infiltrate local councils.”
Abbas further warned that this pattern has reduced local governments to mere appendages of state governments or tools of political godfathers.
Path to Reform
The Speaker urged collaborative efforts between state governors and state houses of assembly to strengthen the local government system. He argued that a reformed and autonomous local government structure would reduce unnecessary burdens on state governments and lead to grassroots development.
“We must instill transparency, fairness, and openness in the conduct of local government elections. Doing this requires the cooperation of state governors and assemblies to see the value in a strengthened local government system.”
The call underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to restore credibility and functionality to Nigeria’s local governance framework.
