Local Government Administration in Nigeria

Local government is the third tier of government in Nigeria, designed to bring government closer to the people at the grassroots level. It is established by law to perform specific functions within a restricted area.

a. Local Government Administration Prior to 1976

Before 1976, local government administration in Nigeria was uncoordinated and varied significantly across regions:

• The North: Operated the 'Native Authority' system based on the Emirate system (Indirect Rule). It was highly centralized and dominated by traditional rulers.
• The West: Initially used the Native Authority system but transitioned to a multi-tiered system (Divisional, District, and Local Councils) modeled after the British system in the 1950s.
• The East: Also moved toward a British-style local government system in the 1950s but faced challenges due to the fragmented nature of traditional political structures.

The pre-1976 era was characterized by a lack of uniformity, excessive control by regional/state governments, and the dominance of traditional rulers.

b. Features of Local Government Reforms (1976 and 1989)

The 1976 Reform

The 1976 Reform is considered a turning point in Nigerian local government history. Key features included:

• Uniformity: It introduced a uniform system of local government across the country.
• Third Tier Status: Local government was formally recognized as the third tier of government.
• Functions: Functions were divided into 'Exclusive' (e.g., markets, motor parks) and 'Concurrent' (e.g., health, primary education).
• Finance: Statutory allocations from the Federal and State governments were introduced.
• Structure: It provided for a multi-purpose single-tier structure with a population range of 150,000 to 800,000.

The 1989 Reform

This reform sought to further the autonomy of local governments:

• Direct Funding: It pushed for direct allocation from the Federation Account to local governments, bypassing state governments to reduce interference.
• Executive Presidency: It introduced the 'Executive' system where the Chairman became the Chief Executive, separate from the Legislature (Councilors).
• Abolition of Ministries: State Ministries of Local Government were abolished to reduce state control (though later reintroduced in different forms).

c. Traditional Rulers and Local Governments

The role of traditional rulers has evolved from being the primary administrators (pre-1976) to acting in an advisory capacity. Under the current system, traditional rulers often serve in a Traditional Council, providing advice on customary law, communal disputes, and cultural matters, but they lack formal executive or legislative power in the Local Government Council.

d. Problems of Local Government Administration

• Financial Constraints: Over-dependence on the Federation Account and the controversial 'State-Local Government Joint Account' where states often divert funds.
• Lack of Autonomy: Excessive interference by state governors, including the dissolution of elected councils and the appointment of 'Caretaker Committees'.
• Corruption: Mismanagement of funds and lack of accountability among local officials.
• Personnel Issues: Shortage of skilled and professional manpower at the grassroots level.
• Constitutional Ambiguity: Conflicting provisions in the 1999 Constitution regarding the creation and control of local governments.