By Icon-James Tam
Last year, the Akeredolu administration proposed the creation of 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ondo State, which was subsequently approved by the State Assembly and signed into law by the late Governor in Ibadan, Oyo State.
However, the creation of these LCDAs sparked controversies, particularly due to land encroachments affecting neighboring communities.
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For instance, disputes arose between the Apoi in Igbobini, Ese-Odo, and the Ikale in Irele, as well as some historic communities of Arogbo in Ese-Odo and Ilaje LGAs. Painfully, these issues led to protests, notably led by the Kalasuwe of Apoi, His Royal Majesty, Pere (Prof) Sunday Adejimola Amuseghan, Lawe II, the Prescribed or Consenting Authority of Apoiland, expressing dissatisfaction with the state government’s actions.
Other affected areas also voiced their opposition.
Subsequently, legal challenges ensued, resulting in a Court decision that nullified the creation of the LCDAs. The Court cited reasons such as the bill being signed into law outside the state, among other grounds for its decision.
The Court’s decision received mixed reactions among the state’s residents. While some applauded the ruling, others called for an appeal by the state government, citing the need to preserve the late Governor’s legacy.
However, the fundamental question remains: does the creation of LCDAs effectively address the governance needs at the grassroots level?
Instead of focusing solely on creating new LCDAs, we must scrutinize the effectiveness of the existing local government structure. Advocates for LCDAs argue they would bring governance closer to the people.
Yet, if our goal is truly effective local governance, strengthening the current system might be more beneficial than adding more layers of administration prone to mismanagement.
In light of this, I believe Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa should reconsider any appeal of the High Court’s judgment.
Such an appeal would likely consume resources better spent on bolstering existing local government administrations to better serve our communities.
Icon-James Tam
N.C.E.; B.Sc (Hons); M.Sc in view UI,
Writes from the creeks of Ogidigba II.
