Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has called on Nigerians to demand accountability
from their state governors and local government chairmen regarding the allocation and utilization of funds intended
for grassroots development. Speaking from his Ikeja residence, Ikuforiji emphasized that the significant increase in
allocations to state and local governments under President Bola Tinubu’s administration has not been matched by
corresponding improvements in local development. Ikuforiji noted that while the federal government has made substantial
efforts to address national challenges, the performance of state and local governments remains a critical factor in
the overall development of the country. He pointed out that many Nigerians tend to focus their frustrations on the federal
government, overlooking the responsibilities of state and local leaders. “If the local government areas, which are the closest to the people, are performing
their functions accordingly with various support from the center, the people will be less bothered about the President,” he
stated.The former Speaker highlighted that poverty alleviation should commence at the grassroots level, advocating for a reorientation where residents actively
demand accountability from their state governors. He recalled that during his tenure, the House of Assembly was
proactive in holding the then-Governor Tinubu accountable for the resources allocated, a practice he believes has
diminished in recent times. Ikuforiji also addressed the constitutional limitations that restrict the federal government’s
ability to directly intervene in state governance. He explained that the 1999 Constitution grants significant autonomy
to state governors, making it challenging for the President to enforce accountability at the state level.In conclusion, Ikuforiji urged Nigerians to recognize the pivotal
role of state and local governments in national development and to hold their leaders accountable for the effective utilization of public funds. He commended
President Tinubu for his efforts in economic recovery and called on governors and local government chairmen to complement these efforts by delivering tangible development at the grassroots level.
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