The Lagos State House of Assembly has approved the comprehensive Regulations and Guidelines on Administrative Procedures for Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas in the State, 2025.

This significant legislative move by the Chairman of the Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Ganiu Sanni (Kosofe 1), was passed following a spirited second day of debate. It aims to instil greater accountability, transparency and operational clarity at the grassroots level.

The speaker, Dr. Mudasiru Obasa, gave the final approval after lawmakers raised critical points that influenced the final shape of the regulations.

The issue of internal conflicts within Local Governments (LGs) was a key discussion point.

While the initial draft suggested that all disputes between the Chairman and members of the Executive Committee be referred to the House, Kehinde Joseph successfully argued that they be primarily resolved within the council itself.

LGs may now only raise loans for capital development expenditure or specific projects, and only with the explicit approval of the State House of Assembly and the State Accountant-General.

To ensure public transparency, approved LG budgets must be posted on the notice board for the entire financial year.

Abiodun Orekoya stressed the need for tighter fiscal control, resulting in a mandate that no LG can apply for a loan without State Government approval.

Kehinde Joseph highlighted that the specific role of the Chief of Staff was not explicitly stated in the provided draft, even though the position is included in the composition of the LG Executive Arm, prompting a likely future clarification.

Solomon Bonu pressed for greater focus on LGs’ ability to address community insecurity.

He urged the chairman to ensure the regulations promote truthfulness and serve as a check on LGs who are already acting in violation of the stipulated rules.

Aro Moshood also commended the committee for its thorough work.