Reform of Local Government

Nigeria’s Local Government system has not been able to achieve the objectives as set out in the 1999 Nigerian Constitution. It has been unable to deliver development or provide for citizens at the local level. Most of its independence and functions have been subsumed by the all-powerful State Governments. To this end, the 10th Senate will, in collaboration with the House of Representatives, take steps to effect constitutional changes to achieve an effective Local Government system in the country.

1. The Senate will pursue constitution reform to recognise Local Governments as an independent tier of government imbued with full financial and operational autonomy.
2. The Constitution will be altered to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of Local Government, clarifying roles for Local and State Governments and ensuring they are sufficiently independent to be effective.
3. The tenure of Local Government, including their elected officials will be clearly defined, unified and insulated from political interference. The system of elections at Local Government level will be reviewed with a view to establishing an independent Election Management Body, solely responsible for the conduct of Local Government elections in the country, with States involved in the creation of the body and participating in nomination of membership of the new States’ Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).