He argued that empowering local governments is not just a policy goal but a necessity for deepening democracy in Nigeria. Alli believes that when local councils are given the tools and freedom to govern, they can better address the needs of rural communities. This, he said, will lead to accelerated rural development, improved service delivery, and greater public trust in government institutions.
“Persistent political interference, weak financial independence, poor governance structures, inadequate administrative capacity and limited citizen participation have hindered their effectiveness,” Alli stated. He added, “Empowering local governments will deepen democracy, accelerate rural development, improve service delivery and strengthen public confidence in governance.”
His remarks come at a time when many Nigerians are calling for reforms in local government administration. The 1976 reforms were designed to decentralize power and bring governance closer to the people, but decades later, many local councils still struggle with autonomy and funding. Alli’s proposal for full autonomy in Oyo State could set a precedent for other states if implemented. As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, his stance on local government reform may resonate with voters seeking more responsive and accountable governance.
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