Oshiomhole: Having Many Local Government Thieves Is Better Than One Major Thief

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, has expressed strong support for the financial autonomy of local governments, emphasizing its critical role in driving grassroots development and effective governance.

Speaking at a forum organized by the House of Representatives on local government autonomy, Oshiomhole applauded the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling that upheld financial independence for local governments. He argued that autonomy is essential for empowering local governments to carry out their constitutional duties and meet the needs of the people effectively.

Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State, highlighted the unique position of local governments due to their direct connection with the people. He urged local government leaders to prioritize critical investments in infrastructure, such as roads, hospitals, and other public services, to improve the quality of life for citizens.

In a lighthearted remark, he said, “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief,” suggesting that decentralizing resources would ensure wealth distribution across the country, potentially creating local millionaires in every community rather than concentrating wealth in a few hands.

Meanwhile, concerns persist over the delayed implementation of direct financial payments to local governments. Obiora Orji, the spokesman for the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, confirmed that these payments have yet to begin. Additionally, Akeem Ambali, National President of the National Union of Local Government Employees, attributed the delay to the lack of approval from President Bola Tinubu for full implementation of local government financial autonomy.