The Lagos State House of Assembly has stated that a constitutional amendment is necessary for the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state to be recognized as having the same status as the 20 established councils. Speaker Mr. Mudashiru Obasa made this announcement during the second public hearing on the Local Government Administration Bill in Ikeja.
He explained that the Nigerian Constitution currently recognizes only 20 councils in Lagos State, and to operate as full-fledged councils, the LCDAs would need constitutional acknowledgment. Obasa highlighted that the House of Assembly established the 37 LCDAs in 2003, but without a constitutional amendment, they will continue to function under the designation of LCDAs.
The proposed Local Government Administration Bill aims to consolidate existing laws regarding local government systems and administration. It includes provisions for the appointment of Mayors for development areas under the jurisdiction of local governments, subject to Assembly confirmation. Additionally, the bill outlines funding arrangements, where the 20 Local Governments will provide financial support to the LCDAs under their authority.
Obasa also referenced a recent Supreme Court ruling that granted autonomy to the 774 local government councils, emphasizing that the Lagos State House of Assembly must adhere to this judgment. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to reform and enhance local government administration in Lagos State, ensuring effective governance and representation within the LCDAs.