Local Government System and Democratic Dividend in Nigeria
Chapter One
Objective of the study
This study aims to comprehensively examine the local government system in Nigeria and its relationship to the democratic dividend, with the goal of identifying key challenges, potential solutions, and pathways for enhancing the effectiveness of local governance and promoting the realization of democratic dividends. The specific objectives of the study are as follows:
- To evaluate the degree of autonomy enjoyed by local government councils in Nigeria and analyze the extent of political interference from higher levels of government.
- To examine the prevalence of corruption and mismanagement within local government councils and their impact on resource allocation, service delivery, and development outcomes.
- To assess the capacity of local government councils in terms of human resources, technical expertise, and accountability mechanisms.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Concept of local government
Local government refers to the administrative entities and governing bodies that operate within specific geographical regions, typically at a subnational level such as municipalities, counties, districts, or other localized administrative divisions. The concept of local government plays a crucial role in decentralized governance, ensuring that decisions and policies are tailored to the unique needs of local communities. This approach fosters greater citizen participation, responsiveness, and efficient service delivery.
The historical roots of local government can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, where various forms of localized governance existed. However, the modern concept of local government gained prominence during the Enlightenment era, particularly influenced by thinkers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Montesquieu. In “The Social Contract,” Rousseau emphasized the importance of community participation in governance, which laid the foundation for the idea of local self-government.
Local government serves as a vital bridge between the central government and citizens. It allows for tailored policymaking, taking into account the diverse cultural, economic, and social characteristics of each locality. According to Wilson (1887), local governments can act as “laboratories of democracy,” experimenting with various policies that can later inform larger-scale national decisions.
The functions of local governments vary widely across jurisdictions, but they commonly encompass areas such as public services, infrastructure development, public safety, education, and healthcare. Local governments are responsible for ensuring the well-being of their residents and managing resources efficiently. This emphasis on local control is often seen as a counterbalance to centralized power.
One of the key features of local government is its potential to foster greater citizen engagement. Citizens have more direct access to their local representatives, making it easier to voice concerns, offer suggestions, and participate in decision-making processes. This participatory element can enhance the legitimacy of governance and strengthen the social fabric of communities.
While local government has many benefits, it also faces challenges. Ensuring equitable resource distribution, preventing corruption at the local level, and maintaining consistent service quality across regions can be difficult. Moreover, the effectiveness of local governments can be influenced by factors such as financial constraints, capacity limitations, and political interference.
The concept of local government has evolved over centuries, reflecting the changing needs and aspirations of societies. It remains a cornerstone of democratic governance, enabling citizens to have a direct role in shaping their communities. By facilitating localized decision-making, promoting citizen participation, and addressing local concerns, local governments contribute to the overall stability and development of nations.
Perception of People towards Dividends of Democracy
Dividends can simply be called the gains or profits realized from democracy. It is an obvious fact that military government operates by decrees while in an ideal democratic government, law operates. Rule of law is what is unique to democracy. It includes supremacy of the law, equality before the law and fundamental human rights. It is only in democracy that rule of law can be obtained.
Therefore, rule of law can be said to be part of the dividends of democracy. Many policies, programmes and plans have been termed “dividends of democracy” by politicians and people since the beginning of the fourth republic till date. They include the introduction of new salary scale for civil servants by the Obasanjo led Administration, multi-party system, deregulation of the communication sector that led to the introduction of Global System for Mobile telecommunication (GSM) was introduced and debt relief during the same administration, the seven point agenda of President Umar Yaradua. The passage of the freedom of press bill, the establishment of nine federal universities and the recent action of the federal government to deregulate the downstream sector in this Goodluck Jonathan’s were also seen as “dividends of democracy” (Igba, 2012).
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
RESEARCH DESIGN
The research design adopted in this research work is the survey research design which involves the usage of self-designed questionnaire in the collection of data. Under the survey research design, primary data of this study will be collected from selected residents in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo in order to determine local government system and democratic dividend in Nigeria in Nigeria. The design was chosen because it enables the researcher to collect data without manipulation of any variables of interest in the study. The design also provides opportunity for equal chance of participation in the study for respondents.
Population of Study
The population of study is the census of all items or a subject that possess the characteristics or that have the knowledge of the phenomenon that is being studied (Asiaka, 1991). It also means the aggregate people from which the sample is to be drawn.
Population is sometimes referred to as the universe. The population of this research study will be Seventy-five (75) selected residents in Owo Local Government Area in Ondo State.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter is about the analysis and presentation of data collected from the field through questionnaire. The analysis of the data with particular question immediately followed by the presentation of findings.
As mentioned in chapter three, 63 questionnaires were administered and 50 were retrieved and necessary analysis was carried out on them and presented as follows:
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain local government system and democratic dividend in Nigeria. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing the challenges of local government system and democratic dividend in Nigeria.
Summary
This study was on local government system and democratic dividend in Nigeria. Three objectives were raised which included: To evaluate the degree of autonomy enjoyed by local government councils in Nigeria and analyze the extent of political interference from higher levels of government, to examine the prevalence of corruption and mismanagement within local government councils and their impact on resource allocation, service delivery, and development outcomes and to assess the capacity of local government councils in terms of human resources, technical expertise, and accountability mechanisms. The total population for the study is 75 selected residents in Owo, Ondo state. The researcher used questionnaires as the instrument for the data collection. Descriptive Survey research design was adopted for this study. The data collected were presented in tables and analyzed using simple percentages and frequencies.
Conclusion
In Nigeria, the local government system is a pivotal component of democratic governance, designed to bring governance closer to the people and empower communities to actively participate in decision-making processes. While the concept of the democratic dividend, representing the positive outcomes of democratic governance, holds great promise for the nation’s development, the realization of its potential hinges on the effectiveness of the local government system.
The local government councils, as the grassroots units of administration, have the potential to foster citizen engagement, promote equitable development, and deliver essential services that improve the quality of life for Nigerians. However, numerous challenges have hindered their ability to fully realize these goals. Political interference, limited autonomy, and a lack of capacity and accountability have impeded the local government system’s ability to effectively allocate resources, execute development projects, and deliver the democratic dividend to its citizens.
To harness the full benefits of democratic governance and achieve the democratic dividend, it is imperative for Nigeria to address these challenges and strengthen the local government system. This involves ensuring genuine autonomy, reducing political interference, and enhancing the capacity and accountability of local government councils. By empowering these councils with the resources, technical expertise, and transparent governance practices they need, Nigeria can enhance service delivery, promote equitable development, and foster citizen participation.
The democratic dividend in Nigeria relies on a well-functioning local government system that channels the aspirations of citizens into tangible improvements in their everyday lives. When local government councils are able to operate autonomously, deliver essential services, and engage citizens effectively, the democratic dividend can flourish. In turn, this contributes to a stronger sense of ownership, trust, and active participation among the populace, nurturing a vibrant democracy that benefits all Nigerians. By recognizing the pivotal role of local government councils in the realization of the democratic dividend, Nigeria can take significant strides towards achieving a more prosperous and inclusive future for its citizens.
Recommendation
- Autonomy and Decentralization: Grant local government councils greater autonomy in decision-making, finance management, and resource allocation. Devolve more responsibilities and powers to the local level, allowing councils to address the specific needs of their communities effectively.
- Legislative Reforms: Review and amend relevant laws to reinforce the autonomy of local government councils and protect them from undue political interference. Legal frameworks should empower councils to function independently while ensuring accountability.
- Capacity Building: Invest in training programs for local government officials to enhance their technical skills in areas such as project management, financial planning, and public administration. Strengthening human resources will enable effective governance and project execution.
- Transparency and Accountability: Implement mechanisms to ensure transparency in financial transactions, project implementation, and decision-making processes. Publicly accessible records and regular audits can help build trust between citizens and local government councils.
- Citizen Engagement: Encourage citizen participation in local governance by creating platforms for dialogue, feedback, and collaboration. Regular town hall meetings, public consultations, and community-driven initiatives can empower citizens to shape development projects.
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