A Lagos lawmaker, Temitope Adewale, has called on councillors to hold local government chairmen accountable for governance and service delivery.
Adewale, who represents Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I, made the call during an interview in Lagos, stressing the need for stronger oversight at the grassroots level.
He referenced the 2024 Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local governments, noting that councils now have direct access to federal allocations.
The lawmaker expressed concern that many Nigerians often blame the Federal Government for issues that should be addressed by state and local authorities.
“It is wrong to place all the blame on the president. Governors and council chairmen must complement federal efforts,” he said.
Adewale added that local governments have received increased allocations since the administration of began in May 2023. He commended the move toward local government autonomy, noting that councils now receive funds directly without interference from state governments.
According to him, this development has led to improved infrastructure and more visible projects at the grassroots level. He emphasised that true development begins locally and urged councillors to ensure that public funds are used responsibly.
“Councillors must hold chairmen accountable and ensure public funds are properly spent,” he said, adding that they should be bold in challenging any cases of misappropriation.
On security, Adewale stated that responsibility lies with all tiers of government, not just the presidency. He also highlighted ongoing advocacy for state and community policing as a means to address insecurity more effectively at the local level.
He further urged the National Assembly to fast-track legislation establishing state police across the country.