Abuja: A former Commissioner for Lands and Survey in Benue, Mr. John Tondu, has raised concerns over the role of governors in undermining local government administration, which he asserts is contributing to the worsening insecurity across Nigeria. Tondu, who previously aspired to the governorship under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized that granting full autonomy to local governments is crucial to addressing the country’s security challenges.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tondu highlighted in Abuja that the deliberate weakening of grassroots governance has left communities susceptible to violent attacks and criminal activities. He pointed out that governors frequently blame the Federal Government for security issues, citing its control over security agencies. However, Tondu argued that if governors were committed to resolving insecurity, significant progress could be made.
He explained, “The third tier of government, which is the local government, is not working. The president, through the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, went to court to grant autonomy to the local government system. If the 36 governors united for the citizens’ interest, insecurity would end.”
Tondu noted that local governments, being closest to the people, should be the first responders to emerging threats. Yet, state governors continue to undermine their effectiveness. He urged Nigerians to support the president’s efforts and demand accountability from state governments to restore functionality to local councils.
“Citizens must now take up the fight. When people demand local government autonomy, governors will be compelled to act. Until then, insecurity will persist,” he stated.
On the topic of state police, Tondu voiced concerns about granting security control to governors, suggesting many lack the maturity to handle such responsibility without misuse. He warned that the push for state police could be exploited to target political opponents, potentially harming democracy in Nigeria. Instead, Tondu advocated for well-funded local councils with grassroots intelligence capabilities as a more effective solution to insecurity.
Addressing the ongoing attacks in Benue and the disputes between Benue and Nasarawa governments, Tondu acknowledged that both sides have roles to play, but emphasized that the failure of local governance remains the core issue.