REMARKS OF THE RT. HON. ABBAS TAJUDEEN, GCON, SPEAKER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AT THE NATIONAL DIALOGUE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT HELD ON 2ND DECEMBER 2024 AT THE TRANSCORP HILTON, ABUJA
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Honourable Colleagues, distinguished Nigerians and stakeholders in the Nigerian project gathered here today, I am delighted once again welcome you to yet another national dialogue in our series of consultations to harness citizens’ views and preferences in our efforts at having a truly peoples’ constitution in the country. Only recently, a similar dialogue was held in this same place to find constitutional pathways to open up our governance and political space to accommodate the very resourceful Nigerian women in our decision making processes.
2. Today’s dialogue focuses on a critical aspect of our governance structure: the local government system. Local governments are often referred to as the closest tier of government to the people. They play an essential role in delivering services, fostering community development, and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance. However, for local governments to fulfil these roles effectively, they must operate with a degree of autonomy that allows them to respond promptly and appropriately to the unique needs of their communities.
3. Sadly, in spite of the noble intentions of the drafters of our constitution in instituting the local government system, it is evident that there are significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. Issues such as inadequate funding, lack of autonomy, insufficient capacity, usurpation of its functions by other levels of government, corruption, and many more, have plagued local governments for decades. These challenges not only stifle local governance but also impede national development. The need for reform has never been more urgent.
4. Inadequate funding remains one of the most significant obstacles. Local governments often operate on budgets that are insufficient to meet their responsibilities. This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation. As a result, many communities continue to suffer from poor living conditions and lack access to basic amenities.
5. Moreover, the lack of autonomy is another critical issue facing local governments in Nigeria. The current structure often places local administrations under the control of state governments, which can lead to interference in their operations and decision-making processes. This lack of independence stifles innovation and accountability at the local level.
6. Additionally, insufficient capacity—both in terms of human resources and institutional frameworks—has hindered effective governance at the local level. Many local government officials lack the necessary training and skills required for efficient administration. This gap not only affects service delivery but also erodes public trust in local governance.
7. One of the most pressing issues we must deal with, is the poor quality of elections into local government councils across our states. This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures. When elections are characterized by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles.
8. This scenario is not merely an embarrassment; it poses a significant threat to our democracy. It fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, often lacking the necessary capacity and vision to govern effectively. Consequently, local governments become mere appendages of state governments or pawns in the hands of so-called godfathers who manipulate political outcomes for their own gain.
9. We acknowledge and appreciate the recent efforts made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in strengthening our local government system. The recent Supreme Court judgment mandating the conduct of elections into the councils and direct disbursement of funds to them, has provided a significant legal framework that supports the autonomy and functionality of local governments across the country. This landmark decision is a testament to our collective commitment to uphold democratic principles at all levels of governance.
10. However, while we celebrate these advancements, we must also acknowledge that the need for comprehensive reform has never been more urgent as some of the nagging issues still persist. Constitutional reforms are essential to address these challenges comprehensively. We must advocate for greater financial autonomy for local governments by ensuring that they receive adequate funding directly from federal allocations without excessive state control. Additionally, we should explore mechanisms that empower local governments with more decision-making authority over their affairs.
11. Furthermore, investing in capacity building for local government officials is paramount. Training programs should be established to equip them with the skills needed for effective governance and service delivery.
12. Importantly, we must confront the the disgraceful poor conduct elections into the councils. We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness and openess in the conduct of elections into local governments.doing this would require the understanding and colloborative efforts of the State governors and Houses of Assembly. We must find a way of convincing them that a strenghtened local government system would relieve the States of unnecessary burdens and lead to grassroots development.
13. I understand that the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has initiated talks with the State Governors and Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly as the key drivers of the local government system to ensure compromises and common ground on the subject matter. I support this initiative and hope that it will yield the necessary outcomes in the amendments of the necessary provisions of the constitution.
14. As I conclude, I want to emphasize that this dialogue is not merely an exercise in reiterating the well-documented challenges faced by local governments. Rather, it serves as a vital opportunity for substantive discussions that will inform the Constitution Review Committee in making appropriate recommendations for amending the necessary provisions of the Constitution.
This is essential to ensure compliance with the existing ruling of the Supreme Court regarding the status of local government councils.
15. I have full confidence in this committee, led by the capable Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and his distinguished team. I believe they will effectively distil these discussions into impactful legislative measures that will receive support from both the National and State Houses of Assembly.
Therefore, I encourage everyone present to share their views and expectations openly. This collaborative effort will enable the Committee to meet the aspirations of all Nigerians concerning the local government system in Nigeria.
16. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) for their unwavering support, alongside the invaluable assistance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO). Your contributions have been instrumental in advancing this process and in our collective efforts to strengthen the foundations of our democracy. The 10th House of Representatives deeply values your partnership and looks forward to collaborating with you further to enhance the legislative institution as we work towards consolidating our democratic governance.
17. I wish us very fruitful deliberations.
18. Thank you all and May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
