..as LAPDO engages stakeholders on smooth LGA’s  Autonomy running

By Musa Ayodeji

The Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Local Government Service Commission, Dr. Bayo Ilawole, has called on local government officials to ensure transparency and accountability in their procurement processes. This follows a Supreme Court judgment that granted autonomy to local governments in Nigeria.

Dr. Ilawole made this statement during a knowledge-sharing roundtable on promoting accountability and transparency in local government procurement processes.

The event, held at Bon Hotel in Akure, was organized by the Life and Peace Development Organization (LAPDO) in collaboration with the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) under the initiative titled “Promoting Accountability and Transparency in LGA Procurement Processes in Ondo State.”

In his remarks, Dr. Ilawole hailed the Supreme Court’s decision, stating, “The judgment is a positive step towards local government autonomy, and every stakeholder must adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the Court. This ruling will revitalize development at the local government level, which is the tier closest to the people. When local governments function effectively, it reduces dependency on the state government.”

He further emphasized that the autonomy would bring about significant transformation and foster growth in the local government system. He also commended the event organizers for their commitment to enhancing the capacity of local government officers in procurement matters, a key area to entrench accountability.

The Executive Director of LAPDO, Mr. Franklin Oloniju, highlighted that the project is being piloted in five local government areas: Akure South, Akure North, Ondo West, Owo, and Ile Oluji/Oke Igbo. The initiative aims to strengthen procurement plans and budgets at the LGA level to promote accountability and transparency.

“This project, supported by the FCDO, is in its final stages. We have conducted several advocacy activities with relevant stakeholders, including the Local Government Service Commission, to strengthen procurement processes. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many LGAs ready to adopt this new approach to governance,” Oloniju said.

He also noted that the Supreme Court ruling has further motivated local governments to take charge of their procurement responsibilities. Oloniju expressed optimism that once the pilot phase is completed, the project would be extended to other local government areas. He added that by January 2025, local government budgets would be passed into law, aligning with state procedures.

Furthermore, Oloniju acknowledged the support of the Ondo State Governor, noting the ongoing reforms at the local government level, which are driving development across the state. “When the autonomy fully takes off, we expect a smooth transition and significant improvements in local governance,” he stated.

One of the participants, Mr. Jonathan Obatola, Executive Director of Pace Setters for Youth Development Initiative, stressed the importance of transparency and accountability at the grassroots level to foster development. He also recommended continuous capacity building for local government staff and the recruitment of new employees to strengthen the workforce.