A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in Benue State, Peter Adejoh, has identified full financial and administrative autonomy for local governments as a critical solution to Nigeria’s growing insecurity.
Speaking at his office with newsmen, while reacting to the increasing incidents of banditry, kidnapping and communal violence across the country, with particular emphasis on Benue State, Adejoh said insecurity persists mainly at the grassroots because local councils lack the authority and resources to act effectively.
According to him, local governments are closest to the people and are best positioned to detect and respond to security threats early, but years of systemic dis-empowerment have rendered them ineffective.
“Security challenges often begin at the community level, yet local governments have been weakened by the denial of their funds and independence. Without resources, they cannot create jobs, support local security initiatives or respond promptly to emerging threats.”
The ADC governorship hopeful linked the surge in criminal activities to widespread poverty and joblessness, especially in rural areas.
He argued that granting autonomy to local councils would allow them to design and execute development programmes that productively engages young people.
“When young people are gainfully employed and see a future for themselves, crime loses its appeal, Adejoh noted.
“Functional local governments can drive employment and reduce the conditions that fuel insecurity.”
He also faulted the state–local government joint account system, describing it as a major setback to grassroots development and effective security management.
Adejoh pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would ensure that funds meant for local governments are released directly to them without interference.
“I will not interfere with local government allocations, once councils receive their funds directly, their leaders will be held accountable for security, development and the welfare of their people.”
Adejoh further emphasized the importance of cooperation among local governments, traditional rulers and security agencies, noting that such partnerships would strengthen intelligence gathering and improve response time to security threats.
He added that lasting peace in Benue State would also require the resettlement of displaced persons and the reconstruction of communities devastated by violent attacks.
The ADC aspirant called on Nigerians to reconsider the structure of governance at the grassroots, insisting that empowering local governments is fundamental to achieving sustainable security and national development.
Local govt autonomy can stop insecurity in Nigeria – Benue ADC guber aspirant, Adejoh
