In a scathing critique of the state of local government (LG) autonomy in Nigeria, political activist and governance expert, Samson Itodo, has called out the system for being both ineffective and a tool for exploitation. Speaking at a recent forum on governance, Itodo expressed disappointment over the inability of local governments to fulfill their mandate, attributing this failure to political interference and systemic corruption.
Local government autonomy in Nigeria was intended to bring governance closer to the people, ensuring that decisions affecting local communities could be made at the grassroots level. However, according to Itodo, this autonomy has not only been a “sham” but has also been weaponized by state authorities and politicians to exploit local resources and manipulate the system for personal gain.
“Local governments have essentially become extensions of state governments, with governors exerting undue influence over their operations,” Itodo remarked. “This has left many local governments powerless to address the needs of their people, while funds meant for local development are siphoned off by corrupt actors.”
Itodo further explained that the lack of true autonomy has led to a situation where local governments are often used as tools for political patronage and exploitation. In many cases, local government officials are appointed or controlled by state governors, limiting their ability to act independently or serve the best interests of their constituents.
“The structure has enabled a culture of exploitation, where funds meant for community development projects are redirected to personal pockets, leaving the communities impoverished,” Itodo said. “This undermines the entire purpose of local governance, which is to empower the people and address their most immediate needs.”
Itodo’s comments come amid growing calls for reform of the local government system in Nigeria. Many governance advocates are pushing for stronger laws and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that local governments operate independently and are free from the stranglehold of state governors. The goal is to create a system where local governments can function effectively and transparently, focusing on delivering essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
“True local government autonomy is essential for the development of Nigeria,” Itodo emphasized. “We need a system that empowers local leaders to make decisions in the best interest of their people without interference, and we must hold those in power accountable for mismanaging public resources.”
Achieving true local government autonomy in Nigeria will require both legislative changes and political will. Itodo and other governance reform advocates argue that local governments should be granted the financial and political independence they need to function effectively. This includes ensuring that local government funds are not diverted by state governments and that local officials are elected through free and fair processes.
For now, Itodo’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform within Nigeria’s local government system. Without significant changes, local governments will continue to fall short of their potential, leaving millions of Nigerians underserved and exploited.
