In a democratic society, the essence of local government elections cannot be overstated. They serve as the bedrock of grassroots governance, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and that decisions impacting their daily lives are made with their consent.
However, in Kwara State, this fundamental democratic exercise has been suspended for five long years under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, raising serious concerns about the erosion of democratic values and accountability at the local level.
Upon assuming office, Governor AbdulRahman suspended the incubent local government chairmen, effectively disenfranchising millions of Kwarans from participating in the democratic process. This move not only defies the principles of democracy but also violates the Supreme Court rulings that have consistently affirmed the independence of local government administrations.
Instead of allowing duly elected local government chairmen to serve out their terms or conducting fresh elections as required by law, Governor AbdulRahman has resorted to installing illegal Transition Implementation Chairmen (TICs) to oversee local governance. These unelected committees lack the legitimacy and accountability that come with a democratic mandate, further undermining the democratic values of the state.
Governor AbdulRahman’s administration has also failed to produce any credible reports that would justify the suspension of the elected local government chairmen. This lack of transparency raises serious questions about the motives behind the suspension and casts doubt on the integrity of the process.
Compounding these issues is the failure of Gov AbdulRahman to properly account for the funds allocated to the local governments under his administration. Local government funds are meant to be used for the development of grassroots communities, yet there is little evidence to show that these funds have been used for their intended purpose.
Furthermore, this administration has been embroiled in a controversy with a senator over a mere 1km of road along Jagun-Gaa Aremu that was constructed by one time Executive Chairman of ilorin west local government. This petty squabble highlights the misplaced priorities of the administration and its failure to focus on the real issues affecting the people of Kwara State.
The same 1km Road has space in the activities of the state government showcasing such Road amounts to devaluation of Governance because the Road actually meant for the Government at the local level.
However, It is imperative that steps be taken to restore democratic governance at the local level and ensure that the voices of the people are heard once again.
I am always curious when I see the KWASIEC Chairman, who began his electoral journey with promises that were never fulfilled and misleading. Why is he delaying the Local Government election in the State? Does he need to visit all 36 States before figuring out how to conduct the election in our State?
Shame! Shame!! And Shame!!
