Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has stressed the importance of a robust legal framework, as established by the constitution and supporting laws, for the successful implementation of local government autonomy.
Speaking at the opening of a four-day sensitisation workshop for political office holders and senior management staff of local governments in Ondo, the governor explained that autonomy carries corresponding responsibilities for local authorities.
The training, titled “Economic and Financial Administration of Local Councils in Nigeria,” was organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the workshop as a deliberate intervention aimed at addressing the factors that have eroded public trust and hindered grassroots development. He added that the programme would also strengthen cooperation between political leaders and career civil servants at the local level.
“Political office is not an avenue for personal enrichment or political vendetta but a sacred responsibility to advance the welfare of our citizens,” he said.
“My administration is committed to building a culture of accountability, efficiency, and results-driven governance across all tiers of government.”
He assured that the state government would continue to back initiatives promoting transparency, fiscal discipline, and effective monitoring and evaluation in local councils.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, explained that the workshop had the governor’s full support to address pressing issues in local governance. He noted that as the tier of government closest to the people, local councils carry the core duty of providing essential services and fostering community development.
Takuro stated that the training would equip participants with contemporary knowledge and practical skills needed for efficient administration, adding that it would reinforce accountability by upholding transparency and prudent financial management.
EFCC Benin Zonal Director Effa Okim commended the state government for working with the anti-graft agency, noting that such cooperation was crucial for equitable wealth distribution and effective service delivery.
He warned against the societal risk of individuals with no legitimate sources of income amassing greater wealth than the wider community, stressing that all tiers of government must remain responsible and answerable.
Similarly, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner for Ondo and Ekiti States, Tiku Menge-Andrew, praised the state’s proactive stance on tackling corruption and enhancing accountability.
Secretary of the State Public Finance and Accountability Coordinating Committee (SPFACC), Professor Adewole Adeyeye, also applauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for fostering synergy among anti-graft agencies in pursuit of good governance across the state.
