The De Renaissance Patriots Foundation, a group of eminent Lagos indigenes, has called on the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, to address its concerns regarding the proposed amendment to the Lagos State Law on Local Government Administration.
In a press statement issued on Friday, November 22, 2024, the Foundation revisited its October 22 letter to the Speaker, detailing 22 observations on the Bill.
The group emphasized that constitutional provisions and a recent Supreme Court ruling affirm the autonomy of local governments, insisting that the legislative framework must align with these principles.
The Foundation criticized the proposed amendment for perpetuating what it described as unconstitutional practices. While the Bill seeks to revert Lagos’ 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) to the original 20-LGA structure, it also proposes creating 37 new Area Administrative Councils.
These councils, to be headed by administrative secretaries appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Assembly, would replace the LCDAs.
De Renaissance Patriots argued that this structure undermines local government autonomy by maintaining state control over grassroots governance.
The group contended that this approach violates constitutional provisions and the Supreme Court ruling in Attorney General of the Federation v. Attorney General of Abia State & Others (2024), which reinforced the independence of local governments.
During an emergency meeting on October 18, 2024, attended by retired public servants, bankers, and other professionals, the Foundation urged the Lagos Assembly to address longstanding infractions on local government roles and revenue sources.
“The Constitution is clear on the responsibilities and revenue sources of local governments,” the group said. “Since 1999, these have been systematically eroded through legislative acts that transfer control to the state government. This must stop.”
The Foundation further noted that their 22-line observations on the Bill remain valid and necessary to ensure efficient service delivery at the grassroots level.
One month after submitting their letter, the group expressed frustration over the lack of official response from the Assembly. “As critical stakeholders, we deserve acknowledgment and engagement on these issues.
The silence from the leadership and representatives of the people in the Assembly is concerning,” the statement read.
De Renaissance Patriots called on the Lagos State government to relinquish control over local government resources and financial obligations, emphasizing that true independence is essential for effective grassroots governance.
“The dominant hold by state governors on LGAs nationwide must shift to truly independent status,” the group declared.
The Foundation urged the Lagos Assembly to reconsider the proposed Bill in light of its observations and constitutional mandates.
They maintained that aligning with the Constitution and the Supreme Court ruling would ensure local governments operate autonomously and effectively serve their communities.
As the legislative process continues, all eyes are on the Lagos Assembly to address these concerns and uphold the principles of local government autonomy.
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