Aniagwu: LGA Chairmen In Delta Have No Justification For Failure, Must Present Account Of Spending –Agberen

By Daniel Dafe

Comr. (Amb) Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, National Coordinator, Initiative for Social Rights Concerns And Advancements (ISRCA) AKA “No Justice, No Peace,” has said that in reference to the assertion made by Hon. Aniagwu Charles, the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, regarding the allocation of ₦7 billion to each Local Government Area in the state for the 2026 budget, specifically targeting local-level projects, it is imperative that council chairmen are without excuse and must prioritize development in their respective regions, particularly focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, and education, as they would be held accountable for any lapses.

He said this in a statement on Tuesday.

According to him, “given the Federal Government of Nigeria’s implemented measures that have fostered a sense of ownership and progress at the grassroots level, Local Government Council Chairmen in Delta State lack rationale for underperformance, considering the direct allocations from the Federal Government to the council’s account.”

Furthermore, he said: “Unlike in the past, State Governments are no longer responsible for disbursing funds to Local Government Areas, a reform that has mitigated corruption at the state government level. This development ought to improve the performance of local government councils nationwide, as direct funding will enable chairmen to execute their duties without interference, coercion, or obstruction.

“Council Chairmen across the 25 Local Government Areas in Delta State should understand that they will be held accountable for areas under their jurisdiction. Situations that facilitate grassroots development across states should not be misappropriated for personal initiatives, as indicated by the scarcity of quality projects and negligible impacts, except in instances where a few council chairmen have demonstrated exemplary performance.

“Every allocation given to a Local Government must be published by Local Government Council Chairmen, as it is the right of the people to know what allocations were made and how they were utilized judiciously. Over one year in office as Chairman of any Local Government Council is sufficient to make intentions clear to constituents, considering the allocations provided by the Federal Government of Nigeria and now by the Delta State Government, which excludes internally generated revenue.”

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He opined that “the financial autonomy granted to Local Government Chairmen has afforded them opportunities to deliver essential services to grassroots communities, coupled with that of the Delta State Government,’ saying that “unfortunately, numerous areas still lack fundamental necessities, and the effects of governance are seldom felt in certain regions.”

He continued: “Local Governments are tasked with providing critical infrastructure and services, including road construction, healthcare facilities, economic empowerment programs, street lighting, and surveillance systems, all of which contribute to crime prevention, improved safety, and enhanced crime resolution, particularly in rural and grassroots areas where criminal activities often originate.

“It is imperative for council chairmen to demonstrate accountability and effectively discharge their duties, as they will be accountable for managing resources allocated for the benefit of the populace upon completion of their tenure. Nevertheless, I respectfully urge the Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to establish a project monitoring committee for the 25 Local Government Areas within the state, to ensure the judicious utilization of the ₦175 billion, if multiplied, at the local level.”