The Chairman of the Lagos State Baale’s Forum, Chief Joseph Keshinro, has stressed that the full enforcement of Local Government Autonomy will greatly strengthen governance at the grassroots level across the country.
He noted that the Supreme Court’s July 11, 2024 ruling, which granted financial independence to all 774 councils, was a milestone in recognising local governments as a critical tier of governance.
According to him, empowering councils would make it easier for citizens to engage directly with their leaders and for community needs to be quickly communicated and addressed.
“The local government areas are closest to the people and traditional rulers. It is easier to tell a council chairman the exact needs of our communities. That is why implementation is key,” Keshinro said.
He maintained that the Federal Government, particularly under President Bola Tinubu, had made notable progress but urged further improvements to ensure the autonomy decision translates into real benefits.
Citing an example, Keshinro said food prices were already responding positively to government policies. “For instance, a bag of garri now sells at N32,000 compared to N50,000 before. That is a big relief,” he explained.
He, however, emphasised that what Nigeria requires is not more legislation but the faithful execution of existing laws to ensure accountability and efficiency.
On the ongoing PENGASSAN agitation, he warned that disruptions could affect fuel supply and ordinary citizens, urging the government to take firm action in the national interest.
Keshinro further appealed to citizens to adopt a patriotic spirit in their daily activities. He stressed that prioritising Nigeria’s interest above personal or sectional gains would foster unity and create the peace necessary for development.