PH
Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo has blasted state Governors over their alleged encroachment in the affairs of local governments across the country, Naij reports.
Obasanjo has claimed that state governors have “bastardized” the powers instilled in local governments through their constant interference in local affairs.
According to the ex-leader, LGAs may elect to refrain from tolerating such treatment from officials of the Federal Government.
While addressing a delegation at the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Obasanjo claimed that he is helpless when it comes to assisting NULGE members towards freeing LGAs from the grip of state governors.
Saddened by the state of affairs at local government level, Obasanjo rued the eroding of the “sanctity and constitutionality” of established LGAs.
“Coming to me or me saying something is not the answer. I’m like a cripple. I have no executive power. I have no legislative power, but you are not crippled and you can show them that you are on ground. Local Government should be allowed to carry out its function,” the elderly Statesman said.
Obasanjo received the delegation, led by NULGE President Ibraheem Khaleel, at his Ogun State residence on Tuesday, where the group aired their concern regarding the overbearing nature of state governors who have allegedly rendered local governments impotent as a result of their interference.
Obasanjo has since appealed to state governments and members of the State and National Assemblies to ensure that LGAs retain their autonomy and power, Channel TV reports.
