Abuja: Rep. Eugene Dibiagwu, representing Ohaji-Egbema/Oguta/Oru West Federal Constituency of Imo, has raised concerns over the current state of local government administration in Nigeria, stating it has been ‘kidnapped’ by state governors.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dibiagwu expressed these views during the Personality Interview Series, highlighting that the inefficiency in local government operations is a direct result of this issue. He emphasized that the governors’ control over the local government system has hindered its optimal functionality.
Dibiagwu, who serves as the chair of the House Committee on Regional Development Commissions and Amnesty Programme, assured that the National Assembly is committed to ensuring full autonomy for local governments. He mentioned his efforts in sponsoring key legislative bills, including the local government autonomy bill, which has already passed its second reading and is expected to advance further soon.
In response to inquiries about the Supreme Court’s judgment granting financial autonomy to all 774 local councils in Nigeria, Dibiagwu noted that the National Assembly is working to reinforce this ruling with strong legal support. He stressed the importance of passing it into law to eliminate any excuses for non-compliance by any government or agency.
Dibiagwu, a newcomer in the house of representatives, described the lawmaking process over the past two years as robust and collaborative. He refuted claims that the national assembly acts as a rubber stamp legislature, defending the body’s role in working synergistically with the executive to pass legislation that benefits the nation.