Nigeria LGA Autonomy Struggle: The Story, The Players, The Truth; An Opinion Piece

Local governments are the closest form of government to the people, ideally positioned to address local needs and bring governance to the people due to their closeness to the people. However, the extent of their autonomy often varies significantly across different regions and countries. The struggle for Local Government Autonomy (LGA) in Nigeria has been ongoing since 2019. In 2019, under former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit issued a regulation, effective from June 1, 2019, which bans transactions on State and Local Governments Joint Accounts. The Story Nigeria’s local governance structures were shaped by its colonial legacy, which left local governments under the control of central or state authorities even after independence. The degree of local government autonomy is defined in Nigeria’s constitution, but efforts to enhance this autonomy have been central to political and social movements. Local governments in Nigeria struggle for financial independence, heavily relying on state and federal allocations. Political interests and power struggles often limit the freedom of local administrations, as local governments are seen as stepping stones for political careers, leading to conflicts over control. The complex interplay between different levels of government in Nigeria creates tensions over jurisdiction and resource allocation. True autonomy for LGAs requires both financial independence and freedom from political interference, enabling local governments to serve their communities effectively. The Players The LGA autonomy struggle involves a diverse array of stakeholders, each with their interests and agendas. Local government officials are at the forefront, advocating for greater autonomy to manage local affairs without excessive interference. State governments, often reluctant to cede control, may resist efforts to grant more power to local entities. The federal government plays a crucial role, in the form of policy and laws passed at the national level; constitutional amendments and policy decisions at the federal level can significantly impact LGA. Civil society organizations support the call for LGA autonomy, arguing that it leads to more responsive and accountable governance. International organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, advocate for decentralized governance as part of broader development strategies. The Truth The reality of LGA autonomy is complex and multifaceted. The success of LGA initiatives varies widely. At the international level, the Open Governance Partnerships is one of the several initiatives with part of its focus on the autonomy of LGAs, which will lead to transparency, accountability at grassroots levels, and contribute to development and offer a bottom-top solution. Some regions have seen significant progress, while others remain caught in the control battle by state government. Even where legal frameworks support LGA, practical implementation can be hampered by bureaucratic procedures, lack of resources, and political resistance. Studies suggest that greater local autonomy can lead to improved service delivery and development outcomes, as local governments are better positioned to understand and address local needs. Effective LGA requires not just autonomy but also capacity building. Local governments need the skills, knowledge, and resources to manage their affairs effectively. The struggle for LGA is ongoing, with continuous efforts required to push for reforms, implement policies, and build capacity. The struggle for Local Government Autonomy is a critical aspect of governance in many countries. While significant strides have been made, much work remains to be done. Achieving true LGA requires not only legal and constitutional reforms but also practical measures to build capacity, ensure accountability, and foster political will. By understanding the history, key players, and realities of this struggle, stakeholders can better navigate the complexities and work towards more effective and autonomous local governance.