By Fisayo Akinduro

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The clamour for local government autonomy has gained fresh momentum following the Supreme Court’s recent ruling mandating the direct allocation of funds to local governments from the Federation Account.

While many have expressed doubts about the practicality of the ruling, local government chairmen across the country are gearing up to navigate this new era of grassroots governance.

In an exclusive interview with Weekend Hope, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon (Dr.) Gbenga Fasua, speaks on the implications of the judgment, his vision for local administration, and plans for the newly created Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

Fasua dismissed claims that local government chairmen remain tied to the apron strings of their state governors, insisting that they are accountable to the people who elected them.

“We are not beneficiaries of any governor; we are beneficiaries of our constituents who voted for us. The Supreme Court’s July 11 judgment is a welcome development, and our governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has affirmed its implementation. However, for full financial autonomy to be realised, there are constitutional provisions that must be amended,” he stated.

According to him, local governments have always enjoyed administrative autonomy, but the financial aspect remains a work in progress.

“The allocation might come directly from the federal government, but certain structures must be put in place to avoid financial instability,” he noted.

Laying out his blueprint for Akure South, Fasua highlighted two key areas of focus: human capital development and urban infrastructure.

He said: “For me, education is human infrastructure, and we must invest in it. Many graduates lack a support system to become self-reliant. My administration will provide massive support for technical and vocational training under the Human Capital Investment Programme. This will cover areas such as ICT, skilled trades, and entrepreneurship.”

On urban renewal, Fasua expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of Akure’s development, vowing to reposition it as a true state capital.

“I am not just a chairman; I am the mayor of Akure South Local Government. Akure’s urbanisation does not reflect its status as a state capital. My goal is to transform its landscape to attract investors and give it the identity it deserves,” he said.

He also unveiled plans to establish an Akure South Government House and an executive complex for efficient administration.

Responding to concerns over poor roads and waste disposal, Fasua disclosed that his administration had commenced enforcement actions against environmental defaulters.

“Recently, 13 houses were sealed over environmental violations. This is part of our zero-tolerance policy for poor sanitation. We are also introducing designated waste disposal points and ensuring every household has a waste bin,” he explained.

On the provision of utility vehicles by Governor Aiyedatiwa, Fasua acknowledged that they would improve service delivery across Akure South.

“These are not luxury cars; they are work vehicles that will enable us to reach remote areas and serve the people more efficiently,” he stated.

Regarding the establishment of LCDAs, Fasua affirmed their legal backing and stated that they would ease administrative burdens.

“We are not disturbed by the LCDAs. They are within our jurisdiction, and they will enhance governance. Although they are not yet elected bodies, I believe necessary legal frameworks will be put in place in due course,” he assured.

Fasua reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through ICT training, technical education, and entrepreneurship support.

“For too long, our youth have been neglected. We are focusing on ICT and skilled labour development to ensure they are employable and self-sufficient. For women, our Human Capital Support Programme will provide financial assistance for businesses,” he added.

On security, the chairman emphasised that job creation is key to reducing crime.

“When people are engaged productively, crime reduces. We are investing in vocational training to ensure our youths have meaningful employment,” he explained.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, stating that community engagement forums would be held regularly to update residents on government activities.

To enhance food security, Fasua disclosed that his administration had nominated young women for specialised agricultural training.

“We are reviving the ‘Operation Eat What We Produce’ initiative to support agribusiness and reduce food import dependency. Women and young people will be our focus,” he stated.

Speaking on the chieftaincy dispute in Akure, Fasua assured that his administration was working with traditional leaders to maintain peace.

“We are handling the matter behind closed doors to prevent a breakdown of law and order. Our relationship with traditional rulers remains cordial, and we hold monthly meetings to address community issues,” he noted.

With economic challenges affecting Nigerians, Fasua believes local governments can play a vital role in easing the cost of living.

“We need to support small businesses and create job opportunities. We have identified key areas of intervention, and with time, our efforts will yield results,” he assured

As Akure South embarks on this new phase of grassroots governance, all eyes will be on Fasua’s administration to see how it navigates the challenges and delivers on its promises.