Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has publicly addressed speculation regarding his views on local government autonomy, asserting his support for the independence of elected local officials.
His comments came during the official commissioning of the newly-constructed Local Government House and Staff Training School at the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan.
In response to concerns that he may not fully embrace the autonomy of the third tier of government, Makinde emphasized, “I have no issue whatsoever with elected officials performing their constitutional duties.”
He stated that while he advocates for local governance, he will continue to raise concerns about any gaps or deficiencies in the existing framework, insisting that he will speak against issues where they arise.
His remarks appear aimed at dispelling the notion that his administration is resistant to the autonomy of local governments.
Makinde highlighted the importance of empowering local officials to ensure effective governance and service delivery in their communities.
During the event, the Governor also announced a significant workforce initiative aimed at bolstering local government operations.
He approved the conversion of ad-hoc staff to permanent positions within the 33 local government councils, a move designed to address over 2,000 vacancies created by retirements and relocations among workers.
This staffing decision reflects Makinde’s commitment to strengthening local governance and enhancing the efficiency of service delivery in Oyo State.
By transitioning ad-hoc staff to permanent roles, the administration aims to stabilize the workforce and improve overall functionality within the local councils.
As the debate over local government autonomy continues to unfold across Nigeria, Governor Makinde’s statements and initiatives reinforce his administration’s commitment to fostering a responsive and accountable local governance structure.
His proactive measures are likely to resonate with stakeholders seeking to enhance the effectiveness of local government in the state.
