For decades, Nigeria’s local governments remained in the shackles of state governments control, perpetuating inefficiency and disempowering the grassroots. But on 11 July, Nigeria’s apex court—the Supreme Court of Nigeria— ordered state governments to refrain from tampering with the Local Governments’ funds. No doubt, this development grants financial autonomy to local governments, opening a new era of responsibility and accountability.
Before now, Nigeria’s local governments have suffered from state control. Many governors have disempowered local government administrators by appointing caretaker committees who usually served more than the legitimate tenure of an elected chairman. However, with the new development, the local government is set to gain more power, finally freeing itself from the shackles of the state government.
More Work to Be Done
Local government councils did not only suffer from funds control, they suffered electoral apathy too. In 2014, a Journal on a cross-sectional survey sampled 455 individuals from three states; namely, Anambra, Plateau, and Lagos. The survey revealed widespread apathy among respondents, with a significant proportion showing ignorance about elections and non-participation in local government council elections. The study identified several challenges, including delayed provision of electoral materials, ballot box snatching and stuffing, rigging, financial incentives, voter intimidation and violence.
This means, for the local government to fully enjoy its independence, it must ensure democratic reforms in its electoral process. To achieve this, Nigeria needs to increase voter turnout in the local government elections and strengthen local government accountability.
Caution Ahead
Before the autonomy, a joint account system between local government councils and states was introduced in 1999. It was meant to promote good governance, effective service delivery, and grassroots development. However, the system failed to achieve its objectives, with local governments struggling to deliver basic services beyond paying staff salaries. This rendered the local governments inefficient and ineffective.
Meanwhile, as the local governments celebrate their newly granted autonomy, they must exercise caution. History has shown that unfettered access to funds can lead to corruption and mismanagement.
The federal government’s decision to secure autonomy for the local government is a laudable step towards true federalism. This development presents an opportunity for local governments to prove their commitment to transparency and accountability. It also shows that local governments can now become more accountable to their people at the grassroots. And it is also a call for the third tier of government to embrace responsibility and stewardship.
