The Lagos State House of Assembly is planning to replace the current 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state with Area Administrative Councils. These councils will be funded by the corresponding Local Government Areas. This change is part of a new bill aimed at improving local government administration and consolidating existing laws on the matter.
The bill affirms that the local government system will be managed through democratic elections and that there will be 20 Local Government Areas as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution. Each Local Government Council will have designated Area Administrative Offices for efficient administration.
It is specified that each Area Administrative Council will be led by an Area Administrative Secretary appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the House. The bill grants LGAs the authority to delegate functions to the Area Administrative Councils within their jurisdiction.
Additionally, the bill addresses the division of Local Government Areas into wards by the State Electoral Commission. It also outlines the Governor’s power to suspend elected officials pending investigation and notification to the House upon their resumption of office.
Stakeholders have expressed concerns about the proposed changes, with some fearing a negative impact on grassroots development. Despite criticisms, the bill is moving forward for public assessment and feedback to enhance local government administration and uphold the rule of law.