Lack of Focus on Local Government Functions
In the current political climate, as we approach the next round of local government elections, I find myself astounded—both in shock and surprise—by the glaring omission from most aspirants who are contesting for chairmanship positions in our dear states. Their campaign platforms are conspicuously silent on one fundamental aspect: the administration of local governments and the critical functions they are expected to perform as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution. This neglect not only raises concerns about their preparedness to govern but also jeopardizes the efficacy of local governance, a pillar of grassroots development that can significantly impact the lives of citizens. It is both curious and alarming that these critical candidates fail to provide any substantive insights on how they intend to implement the numerous responsibilities associated with local government operations.
The Consequences of Inaction
The implications of this oversight are profound. Local governments play a crucial role in the socio-economic development of communities. They are responsible for critical functions such as tax collection, the development and maintenance of infrastructure, and the management of public health issues. A failure to address these issues in their campaigns signifies a lack of understanding or perhaps a lack of willingness to engage with the very foundation of governance that directly impacts citizens.
Consider the frameworks by which local governments are expected to operate: economic recommendations to the state, the establishment of vital social services, including cemeteries for the deceased and homes for the destitute and infirm, the maintenance of roads, streets, and public conveniences, and the collection of various fees and taxes. Each of these responsibilities fosters a connection between the government and the people it serves, rooting governance in the actual lived experiences of constituents.
When aspirants disregard these functions in their campaigns, it becomes increasingly evident that they might not have a concrete plan for addressing the pressing challenges within their local governments. Instead, they appear more concerned with gaining political power than with fulfilling the obligations that come with it. For instance, without a clear strategy for the maintenance and regulation of markets, can we expect them to facilitate economic growth within their communities? How will they ensure that essential services, such as refuse disposal systems and transportation, are effectively managed if they haven’t explicitly addressed these areas in their campaign rhetoric?
The Urgent Need for Detailed Plans
Given these concerns, it is imperative that chairmanship aspirants prioritize the detailed articulation of their plans for local governments. Voters must be equipped with enough information to objectively evaluate these candidates, which means their proposals should reflect a comprehensive understanding of local government functions. Such transparency will enable citizens to gauge the aspirants’ commitment to inclusive governance and development.
The aspirants need to propose specific strategies for tax collection and fee management, emphasizing how they plan to use these resources to benefit the community. For instance, they might detail how they intend to introduce efficient systems for the registration of births, deaths, and marriages within their locality, thereby empowering residents while enhancing governmental credibility. By outlining their plans for the construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure, like roads and public parks, aspirants can directly address the pressing needs of their constituencies.
Moreover, their campaigns should provide insight into how they will engage with community members to assess economic needs and make recommendations that align with state-level policies. Licensing of local businesses should also be framed as a means of fostering economic growth rather than as an arbitrary process. Candidates must be prepared to answer detailed questions regarding their approaches to controlling outdoor advertising, regulating local businesses, and implementing measures that promote public health and safety.
A Collective Responsibility
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with both the aspirants and the electorate. While it is incumbent upon candidates to present a clear and actionable plan concerning the administration of local governments, voters also must demand such transparency and accountability. In doing so, local governance can transform from a mere electoral topic into a tangible reality that profoundly influences the lives of everyday people. As we approach this critical juncture in our political landscape, let us urge aspirants to rise to the occasion and demonstrate their commitment to the functions of local government, ensuring that they will serve not merely as figures of authority, but as true representatives of the people.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
Mobile: +2349053535322
Monday 26th August 2024.