The House of Representatives has voiced its strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to grant autonomy to local governments, a move aimed at bolstering democratic governance at the grassroots level.
Deputy spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, affirmed that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is “fully committed” to backing the President’s constitutional reform agenda, which seeks to sustain democracy across all tiers of government.
Last week, the Federal Government took legal action against the 36 state governors in the Supreme Court, seeking the enforcement of full autonomy for local governments.
One of the key injunctions requested is an order prohibiting state governors from the unilateral dissolution of democratically elected local government chairmen and the appointment of caretaker committees to replace them.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Agbese emphasized the significance of granting autonomy to local governments, describing it as a crucial step toward empowering communities and ensuring effective service delivery.
“We believe this reform will promote transparency, accountability, and good governance at the local level. The Speaker and the House are eager to work with the executive arm to make it a reality,” Agbese stated.
The move aligns with the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House to promote good governance and empower the grassroots. According to Agbese, local governments are the closest tier of government to the people, and their autonomy is essential for effective service delivery, economic development, and democratic growth.
Highlighting the benefits of a reformed administration at the grassroots level, Agbese explained, “By granting financial autonomy to local governments, we aim to enhance their capacity to respond to unique challenges and needs; promote transparency, accountability, and good governance; unlock their potential for economic growth and development; and strengthen the bond between citizens and government.
It would also ensure inclusive and participatory decision-making processes, foster grassroots development and community engagement, reduce poverty, and improve living standards.”
Agbese stressed the critical role of local governments in providing basic services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation. He also acknowledged their contributions to promoting local economic development and job creation, maintaining law and order, and ensuring public safety while building and maintaining essential infrastructure.
“We urge all stakeholders to join us in this historic endeavour to decentralize power and revitalize our democracy.
We reaffirm our commitment to the principles of federalism, democracy, and good governance, and we are confident that local government autonomy will strengthen our democratic foundations, enhance the quality of life for citizens, and promote national unity and cohesion,” Agbese concluded.
The House of Representatives’ backing of President Tinubu’s push for local government autonomy signifies a unified effort to empower grassroots governance, improve service delivery, and foster economic development.
The successful implementation of this reform is expected to strengthen the connection between citizens and their government, ensuring that local governments can effectively address the needs of their communities and contribute to the nation’s overall democratic growth.
