Akinloye Bankole, the Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, expressed concerns that the growth and progress of local governments are being hampered by what he perceives as excessive control by state governors.
According to the PDP spokesperson, governors often install their allies and supporters through what he termed as “a fraudulent local government election” to exert undue influence over the resources designated for grassroots development.
Bankole highlighted, “The governors have become aware of the substantial financial resources allocated to local governments, including monthly funds and Internally Generated Revenues.”
“Their reluctance to advocate for constitutional autonomy of local governments is aimed at seizing control over the LG’s functions through manipulation and undue influence.
“By consistently disregarding the country’s constitution, the original purpose of local governments as the third tier of governance is compromised, failing to adequately meet the needs of the people at the grassroots level.
“The governors’ domineering influence and unconstitutional grip over local governments have stunted the anticipated socio-economic advancement and progress at the grassroots level. This is primarily due to the lack of direct access local governments have to their revenues.”
Bankole stressed, “In order to establish effective and efficient governance at the grassroots, the initial step is to emancipate local governments from the tight hold and influence of governors.”