The Nigerian Constitution has been a subject of debate, particularly regarding local government autonomy. The 1999 Constitution, as amended, has been criticized for its centralized structure, hindering the effective functioning of local governments.
In recent years, calls for a national dialogue on constitutional review have grown, focusing on granting greater autonomy to local governments. This dialogue is long overdue, and its importance cannot be overstated. Local governments are the closest tier of government to the people, best positioned to respond to unique community needs and challenges ¹.
However, the current Constitution has limited their ability to function effectively, concentrating power and resources at federal and state levels. Granting autonomy to local governments would enable them to take ownership of their development, make decisions reflecting community needs, and allocate resources efficiently. This would lead to improved service delivery, enhanced economic development, and increased citizen participation in governance.
A recent Supreme Court ruling in favor of the federal government’s suit on revenue allocation due to local governments has been a game-changer for local government autonomy in Nigeria. The ruling, which insisted on democratization, has prompted state governments to conduct local government elections, enabling them to access revenue and breathe life into their autonomy.
The House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review, chaired by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, will host a national dialogue on local government autonomy on Monday, December 2, 2024. The dialogue will feature a panel of discussants, including Senator Adamu Aliero, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, among others.
The success of the constitutional review process depends on Nigerians coming together to forge a common vision for their country’s future. By working together, a more inclusive, participatory, and effective system of government can be created, truly serving the needs of all citizens.
