Aiyedatiwa Calls for Constitutionally Guided LG Autonomy, Urges Transparency and Accountability at Grassroots

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has stressed that local government autonomy must be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries of the constitution and relevant laws to be truly effective.

He made this assertion in Akure at the opening of a four-day sensitisation workshop for political office holders and senior management staff of local governments in the state.

The training, titled “Economic and Financial Administration of Local Councils in Nigeria,” was organised by the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission (SPFACC).

Aiyedatiwa described the initiative as a deliberate effort to address issues that have eroded public trust and impeded grassroots development.

He noted that while autonomy grants local governments greater control, it also comes with weighty responsibilities. “This workshop is designed to enhance participants’ understanding of governance principles and build their leadership and management capabilities,” he said.

He also cautioned that political positions should not be used for personal gain or vendettas, but rather to advance the welfare of the people. The governor pledged ongoing support for efforts that foster transparency, fiscal discipline, and robust monitoring and evaluation in local government operations.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, added that the governor’s backing of the workshop reflects his commitment to strengthening local governance.

“As the closest tier of government to the people, local governments bear the primary responsibility for delivering essential services and driving development at the grassroots,” Takuro said. He added that the training would equip participants with modern tools and knowledge for efficient administration, while reinforcing transparency and financial discipline.

EFCC Director for the Benin Zonal Office, Effa Okim, commended the state government’s collaboration with anti-corruption bodies and its strong stance against financial misconduct. He warned against a society where individuals with no verifiable income grow wealthier than the state, urging all levels of government to uphold accountability.

ICPC’s Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Ondo and Ekiti States, Tiku Menge-Andrew, also praised the Aiyedatiwa administration’s proactive efforts to fight corruption.

Professor Adewole Adeyeye, Secretary of SPFACC, highlighted the governor’s leadership in fostering synergy among anti-corruption agencies to promote good governance. He assured that SPFACC would continue supporting the development of local government administrators through capacity building.