Let Local Governments Breathe, Odesanmi Tells Governors
By Exponent News, Akure – May 25, 2025
At a recent public lecture hosted by Ayodele Ologunola Publisher -Focus Magazine, a call for true autonomy for local governments resonated strongly as media veteran and publisher of Monarch Magazine, Mr. Odeyemi Odesanmi, urged state governors to stop stifling grassroots governance.
The event, themed “The Impact of Political Interference on Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria,” took place at the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Hall in Akure. Odesanmi decried the continued stranglehold of state governments over local councils, blaming the lack of financial independence and administrative control for the underdevelopment at the grassroots level.
“Local governments are being crippled by the political interference of state governors. Joint accounts and imposed projects have made it impossible for them to function effectively,” Odesanmi stated. He added that many council leaders are answerable not to their communities, but to party leaders who installed them.
He lamented that elections into local government offices are often delayed or manipulated, leading to widespread disenfranchisement of the people. “The councils are not accountable to the citizens anymore but to political godfathers,” he added.
Odesanmi also highlighted how political interference fosters corruption. “Many council officials draw salaries without rendering any service, and contracts are often hijacked by state authorities,” he said.
To address these issues, he proposed direct federal allocation to local governments, full enforcement of the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, and strengthening of electoral bodies. He also called on citizens to demand transparency and push for an independent and vibrant local government system.
The event also featured award presentations to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to societal development. Honorees included Mr. Ayodeji Moradeyo, TVC Correspondent in Ondo State (recognized as a Role Model in Journalism), and Mr. Dapo Aruwajoye, awarded as a Media Icon.
The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, was represented by his Special Adviser on Digital Communication, Mr. Allen Sowore. Also in attendance were Mr. Taiwo Gbamila, Special Adviser on Multimedia, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Ondo State Government, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan.
In his message, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated the state’s commitment to grassroots development, revealing that each local government in the state had received N50 million to execute development projects. He assured that upon successful implementation, more funds would be made available. He also encouraged journalists to ensure accuracy in their reporting.
The event drew a large audience of stakeholders, community leaders, and members of the press.
