By Sade adewale

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The local government system remains a fundamental pillar of Nigeria’s governance structure, serving as the third tier of government. With 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, the country boasts 774 local government councils, each with an administrative framework designed to bring governance closer to the people.

The evolution of the local government system in Nigeria has undergone various phases. Initially referred to as the native authority, it gained formal recognition in 1976 following the Local Government Reforms, which integrated it into the federal system.

However, in the pre-independence era, it functioned under the regional governments without defined constitutional responsibilities.

Historically, Nigeria’s local government system took shape after the era of indirect rule, where traditional institutions played a central role in grassroots administration.

The 1960s ushered in a new phase with efforts towards democratization, though these strides were disrupted by the Nigerian Civil War in the early 1970s.

The subsequent period saw significant reforms aimed at strengthening local governance, particularly during the 1976 Local Government Reforms.

Between 1979 and 1983, local government administration faced challenges due to its dependency on the broader federal system.

However, successive governments have made concerted efforts to revitalize the third tier by increasing revenue allocations and reducing state government influence.

Elections at the local level are pivotal in sustaining democracy, as they determine public trust and participation in governance. Local government elections, ideally held every two years, serve as a platform for grassroots mobilisation and socio-economic development.

Yet, research indicates that many state governors prefer caretaker committees unrecognised by the constitution over elected councils, citing economic and political considerations. This practice has, in some instances, hindered accountability and transparency.

To address this, stakeholders advocate constitutional amendments to ensure compulsory and periodic local government elections, reinforcing democratic participation.

The legislative arm of the local government, comprising elected councillors, plays a vital role in making by-laws and overseeing daily council operations, further strengthening governance at the grassroots.

In Ondo State, the local government elections held on January 18, 2025, saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) secure victories across all 18 local government areas and 203 councillorship positions.

The exercise marked a significant step in deepening democratic governance at the grassroots.

Before the elections, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa met with APC candidates and underscored the importance of consolidating the party’s previous electoral successes. He urged them to approach the elections strategically and with a commitment to effective governance.

“This election is not just about winning but about proving that our party remains the leading voice of the people.  I urge you to remain focused and committed to delivering impactful governance at the grassroots,”Aiyedatiwa stated.

Following the polls, the governor swore in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.

He emphasised the constitutional role of local governments, in line with Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and called on the new leaders to serve with integrity.

“The oath you have taken is not a mere formality but a solemn promise to deliver on your mandate. You must align your governance with our administration’s ‘O’ Datiwa, O’ Dirorun’ (OUR EASE) agenda to drive meaningful development,” Aiyedatiwa declared.

Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the new Chairmen and their  deputies to align their governance with his administration’s New Development  Agenda  ‘O Datiwa, O Dirorun’ (OUR EASE), which focuses on seven key pillars including  Order, Security, and Rule of Law Urban/Rural Development through Agriculture and the Blue Economy.

Others are Revolutionary Technological Advancement and Industrialisation, Efficient Healthcare and Socio-Economic Welfare Adequate Power and Affordable Energy Sustainable Infrastructure Development and Tourism Education, Human Capital Development, and Entrepreneurship.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), noting that they were established to enhance governance accessibility.

The Ondo State Independent Electoral Commission (ODIEC) received commendation for conducting a peaceful and credible election, while security agencies, election monitors, and civil society organisations were acknowledged for their roles in ensuring transparency.

Following their swearing-in, the newly elected chairmen pledged to prioritise developmental initiatives.

The Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, expressed his administration’s focus on infrastructural development, youth empowerment, and economic expansion.

“My administration will prioritise road construction, public facilities, and other essential projects. We will also create economic opportunities for youths and women to reduce unemployment,”   Fasua said.

As Ondo State ushers in a new phase of local governance, the emphasis remains on accountability, development, and inclusive governance.

By fostering a transparent and participatory system, the state aims to strengthen democratic processes and enhance the well-being of its citizens at the grassroots level.