Business
OGUN: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION AND IGR By Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji
Democracy in Nigeria today, is no longer peoples oriented as opined by the progenitors of this concept; rather, what we have now is AUTOCRACY where only the few enjoy the dividends through the workforce of the majority and amass wealth for their selfish interest and personal gain.
Few months back, there was much ado about the establishment of additional 37 LCDAs by Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State as the development was greeted with mixed reactions.
While many argued that, the establishment of such would only further impoverish the state owing to the fact that the existing 20 Local Government Authority were inadequately funded, government hinged its claim on bringing development to the grassroot.
Though, the intention of Governor Amosun was political, but of course, bringing government to the doorstep of the people will aid development, no doubt about that, our fear of the LCDAs is inadequate funding in this situation that the state government has taken over the Local Government account all in the name of Single Treasury Joint Account. I make bold to say that, such move was a ruse and will only hamper the activities of the Local government.
A local government is a local administration under which local communities are organized to maintain law and order. It is also defined as a non-self governing body set up by an act of Parliament, a decree, or by the Constitution to administer a territory or a political entity for the benefit of a stronger government which normally cannot or does not want to rule the area directly.
Local Governments have been described as “the strength of free nations” because of their effective control of Local affairs for the good of all.
Local Government in traditional Nigerian political systems was established through the instrumentalities of traditional authorities. These were Emirs, Obas, Chiefs, Age-grades and Council of elders. It was the societal interaction of these traditional political institutions that authoritative allocation of values were made for the society. With the advent of British colonial rule in Nigeria, the chieftaincy institutions were involved in the system of Local government called the indirect rule.
Indirect rule is a system of government in which the British ruled the people through traditional rulers according to the native laws and customs. When the indirect rule collapsed due to the Aba women riot in 1929, local government after the civil war underwent reforms in Nigeria.
The Eastern (East Central and South-eastern states) and Mid-Western states adopted a one-tier local government system called Divisional Councils. In the local divisions, emphasis was placed on decentralization, democratization, efficiency and effectiveness of the councils.
However, as the Federal military government prepared to hand over power to civilians, it reformed the local government system throughout the country in 1976. It recognized local governments as the third tier of government.
The 1976 reform was intended to stimulate democratic self-government and to encourage initiative and leadership potential and enshrine the principle of political responsibility. But today in Ogun State, Governor Ibikunle Amosun administration doesn’t give a damn to the existence of Local government authority.
Instead of empowering the 20 local governments with their respective allocations to effectively discharge its obligation to the people, the APC administration in Ogun State has crippled the LG with inadequate fund, but created additional 37 LCDAs to serve his selfish objectives.
With such inappropriate establishment, one begin to wonder how the governor will finance them considering the low income of Federal allocation for local government.
Even in the face of the global economy doldrums which Nigeria is not an exception to, definitely such effect will take its toll on federal allocation to State governments down to local government, that is why local government administrators have been constitutionally empowered to generate revenue to execute its projects.
Local governments in Nigeria derive their revenue from internally generated revenue, statutory allocation from states, constitutional allocation from the federal government account, grants, donations and advances from banks.
Part of the internally generated revenue of the local government include; rates imposed on the use of specific items whether individually or government owned. These rates include water rate, tenement rate, capitation rate and motorcycle rate.
Another means of generating fund by the local government to remain independent is motor Park and stallage fees. Others include, registration of births, marriages, deaths and house numbering. But today, Governor Amosun in his megalomania style of leadership overthrew the responsibility of the local government and rendered them stagnant and under performing
The motor Park fees is now being collected by the governor’s political thug, Mr. Akeem Adeosun a.k.a Jango, while house numbering and signages fee collection is now being handled by a private agency connected to the governor.
Little wonder the rural settlers are deprived of the basic amenities expected from the local government such as, road maintenance, refuse clearing, provision of portable water like borehole, environmental sanitation, public enlightenment on new government policies, provision of health facilities, job creation, provision of primary education among others.
Infact, allocation from both federal government account and state government as approved by the State House of Assembly are now allegedly being controlled by Mr. Governor himself.
Though, one valid claim from one of the Governor’s aides was that, there were allegations and counter allegations on the local government leadership ranging from financial misappropriation, under performance and financial embezzlement, but one critical question the good people of Ogun State should ask Mr. Governor or any of his spokespersons is that, why is it that the Federal government has not taken over the affairs of the state despite allegations of corruption, misplaced priority projects? Why is Ogun State Government taking over LG activities in Ogun?
Another heart pondering issue on the shredded part of the LG is the issue of local government elections. One of the basic features of the 1976 local government reform in Nigeria is tenure of office.
The local government councilors are to be elected on a three-year basis. The normal life of a local government Council is also three years, although, the governor of a state could order the dissolution of the council if found incapable of discharging its functions effectively. The Governor may appoint a caretaker committee pending a fresh election. But after one year in office and the dissolution of the local government caretaker committee across the 20 functional Council areas, no plan as it is by the state government to conduct an election into the council areas.
The Governor’s decision of not conducting local government election in the state maybe connected to public outcry over the failed promises and hardship inflicted on the people by the APC government in the state, hence, the fear of losing the council areas to oppositions in the state remain the beginning of wisdom for the governor.
However, the constitution remains the grundnom for governance in Nigeria, and many informed political analysts are of the opinion that the Governor Ibikunle Amosu led regime cannot afford to run foul of constitutional provisions on tenure of caretaker executives at the local government and as such must prepare to hold elections soonest in consonance with extant constitutional provisions.
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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