Senate Considers Bill to Ensure Fiscal Accountability In Local Governments
The Senate is considering a Bill which seeks to ensure fiscal accountability and transparency in local government administration.
The ‘Local Government Fiscal Accountability Bill 2024’ Bill was passed for first reading on Tuesday before the Senate went on annual vacation. It was sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC – Kwara Central).
The Bill, among other things, mandates the publication of monthly allocations to all Local Government Areas from the Federation Account.
Senator Mustapha highlighted the importance of the proposed law in fostering public trust and confidence in local government operations.
He said: “Transparency in local government finances will lead to more effective and rapid development in rural areas and help curb rural-urban migration.”
According to him, local governments are the closest arm of government to the people, and, so, making their revenues public would drive development and accountability.
“Local government chairmen do not have constitutional immunity. By publishing their revenues, we encourage them to utilise funds wisely and effectively.
“The objective of this Bill is to promote transparency and accountability in local government administration by mandating the publication of monthly allocations to all local government areas from the Federation Account. By doing so, we aim to foster public trust and confidence in Local Government Administrations.
“As chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Production Services and Rural Development, my intention is to motivate Local Government administrations to develop rural areas, which is a key focus of mine. I am confident that this Bill will achieve its intended purpose and contribute to the growth and development of our nation,” he added.
