Speaker Abbas Tajudeen Condemns Local Government Elections, Calls for Urgent Reform
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has described the conduct of local government elections across Nigerian states as a “disgrace” and a significant threat to democracy. Speaking on Monday at a national dialogue on local government reform and constitutional amendments held in Abuja, Tajudeen highlighted the dire need for transparency, fairness, and autonomy in the country’s local governance system.
In his remarks, the Speaker expressed disappointment that, despite the constitution’s intent to establish an effective local government system, numerous challenges have rendered it dysfunctional. Among the issues he cited were inadequate funding, lack of autonomy, interference by higher levels of government, and endemic corruption.
Flawed Electoral Process
Abbas particularly criticized the poor quality of local government elections, where ruling parties often dominate and win all available positions. He argued that such outcomes undermine democracy and highlight the flawed nature of the electoral process.
“One of the most pressing issues we must deal with is the poor quality of elections in local government councils across our states,” Abbas said. “This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures.”
He added, “When elections are characterised by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles. This scenario is not merely an embarrassment; it poses a significant threat to our democracy.”
Impact on Governance
The Speaker argued that the dominance of ruling parties in local elections often results in the emergence of individuals who lack the capacity and vision to govern effectively. “This fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, rendering them mere appendages of state governments or tools in the hands of political godfathers who manipulate outcomes for personal gain,” he said.
He emphasized that this trend undermines local governments’ ability to drive grassroots development, leaving them ineffective and reliant on state governments for direction and resources.
Call for Collaborative Reform
Abbas called for urgent reform of the local government system, stressing the need for collaboration between state governors and state Houses of Assembly to strengthen the councils. He urged them to recognize that empowering local governments would relieve states of unnecessary burdens and enhance grassroots development.
“We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness, and openness in the conduct of elections into local governments,” the Speaker said. “Doing this would require the understanding and collaborative efforts of the state governors and Houses of Assembly.”
He concluded by calling for a collective national effort to restore credibility to local government elections and ensure they fulfill their constitutional mandate as a critical component of Nigeria’s governance structure.
