The Lagos State House of Assembly has approved comprehensive regulations to enhance accountability and transparency in local governments. The move followed debates on internal disputes, loans, and budget postings. Speaker Dr. Mudasiru Obasa gave final approval after lawmakers' inputs shaped the guidelines.
On October 27, 2025, the Lagos State House of Assembly passed the Regulations and Guidelines on Administrative Procedures for Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, 2025. This legislative action, led by the Chairman of the Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Ganiu Sanni (Kosofe 1), came after a spirited second day of debate aimed at fostering greater accountability, transparency, and operational clarity at the grassroots level.
Speaker Dr. Mudasiru Obasa provided the final approval, incorporating critical points raised by lawmakers. A key discussion focused on resolving internal conflicts within local governments (LGs). The initial draft proposed referring all disputes between the chairman and executive committee members to the House, but Kehinde Joseph argued successfully for primary resolution within the council itself.
Fiscal controls were tightened, allowing LGs to raise loans only for capital development expenditure or specific projects, subject to explicit approval from the State House of Assembly and the State Accountant-General. Abiodun Orekoya emphasized the need for stricter oversight, mandating State Government approval for any loan applications.
To promote public transparency, approved LG budgets must be posted on notice boards for the entire financial year. Kehinde Joseph noted that the draft did not explicitly state the role of the Chief of Staff, despite its inclusion in the LG executive composition, suggesting future clarification.
Solomon Bonu urged greater emphasis on LGs' role in addressing community insecurity and ensuring the regulations promote truthfulness while checking violations. Aro Moshood commended the committee for its thorough work.