Yomi Durojaye
The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to mandate the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to design a clear framework that will grant financial independence to local government legislatures across the state.
At Tuesday’s plenary, presided over by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, lawmakers unanimously backed a motion sponsored by Ganiu Sanni (Kosofe 1), stressing that financial autonomy is crucial for strengthening grassroots democracy and effective governance.
Speaker Obasa expressed concern over reports that some former council chairmen still control council finances through Council Managers and Treasurers, remaining signatories to accounts even after leaving office. He insisted such practices undermine transparency and must be addressed immediately.
“The independence of the legislative arm at the council level is non-negotiable if we truly want grassroots democracy to thrive,” Obasa said, urging stakeholders to act decisively.
Sanni, who moved the motion, reminded the House that the 1999 Constitution recognises the local government legislature as a vital arm of governance, with core responsibilities in law-making, oversight, and representation. He, however, noted that dependence on the executive arm for funding weakens the separation of powers and exposes councillors to undue influence.
Other lawmakers, including Solomon Bonu (Badagry 1), Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1), and Nureni Akinsanya, threw their weight behind the motion. While Bonu praised President Bola Tinubu for his efforts at deepening grassroots democracy, Elliot argued that the Assembly’s reform agenda would be incomplete without granting autonomy to council legislatures. Akinsanya added that financial independence would enable councillors to carry out their duties responsibly and without interference.
Following the debate, the Assembly resolved to direct its Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development to immediately begin drafting a self-accounting law to give legislative arms of the 20 LGs and 37 LCDAs in Lagos the financial autonomy they need.
