From Akpovoke Otiti (Arhavwarien)
The office of a councillor in Nigeria has devolved into a mere figurehead position, stripped of its former influence and authority. Councillors, who are supposed to represent their wards, can no longer exert their influence on even the smallest projects, such as a mono pump project. The root cause of this problem lies in the excessive loyalty demanded by council chairmen, which has led to an unhealthy concentration of power.
This imbalance has rendered councillors ineffective, reducing them to mere spectators in the decision-making process. The leader of the house, who is supposed to provide guidance and direction, is now forced to pledge allegiance to the council chairman in order to remain relevant. This sorry state of affairs is a testament to the incompetence that has infiltrated the system.
The lack of education and basic skills among many councillors is a significant contributor to this problem. It is not uncommon to find councillors who struggle to express themselves in writing, resorting to voice notes instead. This lack of intellectual capacity has led to a dearth of innovative ideas and effective leadership.
The Nigerian Constitution is clear about the roles and responsibilities of local government councillors. They are expected to participate in decision-making, contribute to the strategic direction of the council, and ensure the responsible allocation of resources. However, these provisions are being flagrantly disregarded, leading to a breakdown in the system.
The situation is further complicated by the imposition of unqualified individuals as leaders. This has led to a lack of respect for councillors among the general public. Many councillors are more interested in currying favor with the power bloc than in serving the interests of their constituents.
The consequences of this dysfunctional system are far-reaching. It has led to a sense of disenfranchisement among citizens, who feel that their voices are not being heard. It has also created an environment in which corruption and abuse of power can thrive.
To restore the dignity and effectiveness of the councillorship office, it is essential to address the underlying issues. This includes ensuring that only qualified and competent individuals are elected or appointed as councillors. Additionally, the constitutionally mandated roles and responsibilities of councillors must be respected and upheld. Only then can the councillorship office regain its former glory and effectively serve the interests of the people.