Hon. Vincent Reuben Obu, the immediate past Council Chairman of Abua/Odual Local Government Area, has shared his insights on the perennial underdevelopment plaguing some Local Government Areas in Nigeria.
In an interview with newsmen, Hon. Vincent attributed the stagnation to the lack of full administrative and financial autonomy granted to the LGAs, which has hindered the effective utilization of their finances.
He noted that some states continue to exert undue influence over the administration and finances of their LGAs, rendering them vulnerable.
Hon. Vincent also commended the executive governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for granting full administrative and financial autonomy to the LGAs, even before the Supreme Court judgment.
This foresight, he said, enabled council chairmen like himself to deliver commendable performances.
When asked about measures to curb embezzlement and diversion of public funds meant for LGA development, Hon. Vincent emphasized the need for government institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to operate independently and effectively.
He stressed that these agencies should be shielded from undue influence from the central government, allowing them to discharge their oversight responsibilities freely.
By doing so, funds allocated for LGA development would be better protected from diversion and misappropriation.
Signed.
Emma Okony
Head of Media to Hon Vincent Reuben Obu.
Tuesday, 27th May, 2025.
