The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has described the conduct of local government councils across the states as a mockery of democratic principles.
Abba stated this on Monday in Abuja at the national dialogue on local government and constitution amendment.
While local governments are often referred to as the closest tier of government to the people, they play an essential role in delivering services, he said 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.
Abbas pointed out that in spite of the noble intentions of the drafters of the constitution in instituting the local government system, it was evident that there are significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness.
The Speaker stated categorically that when elections are characterised by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that what is being witnessed is a mockery of democratic principles.
Abbas states: “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 characterised by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles.
“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.”
Abbas stressed that 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.
He added: “Importantly, we must confront the disgraceful poor conduct of elections into the councils. We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness and openness in the conduct of elections into local governments.
“Doing this would require the understanding and collaborative efforts of the State governors and Houses of Assembly. We must find a way of convincing them that a strengthened local government system would relieve the States of unnecessary burdens and lead to grassroots development.”