Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has said the National Assembly would revise existing laws that had hindered the effective governance of local government councils in Nigeria, with the aim to ensure full autonomy for the tier of government.
Akpabio identified the Joint State and Local Government Accounts Committee and the State Independent Electoral Commission laws as key pieces of legislation that would be amended to secure Local Government autonomy across the nation.
He spoke at Independence High School Ukana, in Essien Udim local government area of Akwa Ibom State after participating in the local government election yesterday.
A statement from his special assistant on media and communication, Anietie Ekong, quoted Akpabio as encouraging citizens to engage in the electoral process, regardless of the outcomes.
“I firmly advocate for local government autonomy, and a recent Supreme Court ruling highlighted the necessity for local government funds to be allocated directly to them. However, achieving this will require some legislative adjustments due to various constitutional provisions,” he said.
He emphasised the need to address the joint local government accounts committee and the regulations set forth by the State Independent Electoral Commissions. His visit was motivated by a desire to observe the electoral process and ensure transparency in the elections conducted by the state government, the statement said.
Akpabio expressed concern over the frequent outcomes where the ruling party secures all available positions in local government elections.
He stated, “The overwhelming support I have witnessed in my senatorial district raises questions about how any party could consistently achieve such results. If elections are held fairly, parties would select candidates based on merit rather than their affiliation with the ruling party.”
He urged Nigerians to reflect on the importance of ensuring that every vote counts and emphasised the need to strengthen democracy at the grassroots level, as true development cannot reach the common citizen without it.
“Vote regardless of the outcome. The joy lies in exercising your right to vote. Achieving accurate representation will require legislative efforts, executive support, and judicial backing,” he said.
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