Eze-elect of Nsirimo Amaise Autonomous Community, Umuahia South local government, Abia State, Dr Charles Amanze, has advocated the creation of autonomous community seats in the local councils for effective representation of the people.
The High Prince Ugochinyerenwa said this could be achieved by amending the state’s local government law in line with the autonomy the federal government recently granted the third tier of government.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Umuahia, the state capital, yesterday, he said the present situation where ward councillors represent up to two or more communities in the council are grossly inadequate and out-modelled.
“The situation faces a lack of full knowledge of each community’s specific needs, prioritising party interests over community concerns, and not being accessible or accountable to the community. which such representative would do with ease.
“As we celebrate the autonomy of the system, I wish to bring to the attention of our esteemed governor, Dr Alex Otti, the House of Assembly, and the people in general this crucial matter.”
“We need a voice in the local government council for each autonomous community to ensure that the communities are carried along in the scheme of things,” the statement read in part.
He explained that adopting individual autonomous community representation would ensure every community has “a strong, dedicated voice,” which would serve as a vital link between the council and the community.
“I, therefore, urge the state government to take necessary steps to provide for the representation of autonomous communities, like ours, in the local government administration.”
He suggested that the primary functions of the community representative include advocating community interests and needs and providing feedback on council and community decisions, among others.
According to the cultural ambassador, such creation would not undermine the councillors but would go a long way to complement their efforts in developing the communities.
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