Democracy, in its purest form, is not an elite’s ritual, exercised every four years. It is not confined to Abuja or state capitals, neither is it the exclusive preserve of career politicians, rather, democracy finds its true expression in the streets of our communities in the decisions made by local leaders, and the collective voice of the people at the grassroots.
It is here-in the towns, wards, and villages that governance either works or fails. Local governments were created to serve as instruments of inclusion, enabling citizens to directly influence their own development. When a community needs a primary school, borehole, or functional health centre, it is not the National Assembly they turn to; it is the local council. That is the power of grassroots governance, and that is precisely why it is feared by those who profit from centralised control.
Yet today, what should be the most vibrant tier of government in Nigeria lies in a state of paralysis. Stripped of financial autonomy, weakened by unconstitutional caretaker committees, and denied the authority to serve their people. Local governments have been reduced to mere administrative puppets of state governors. This is not just a political error, it is a betrayal of the social contract.
At Arogbo-Ibe Voice Reporters, we reject the deliberate erosion of grassroots power. We consider the weakening of local governments not only an attack on development but a direct assault on the democratic rights of every Nigerian. It is unconscionable that local government councils are left to beg for resources while the constitution that clearly mandates their autonomy is trampled with impunity.
We begin this series with a solemn call: let us not be deceived by the illusion of democracy that is hollow at the base. Let us hold accountable those who conspire to suffocate grassroots governance for personal gain. A system that silences local voices is not democracy — it is tyranny by another name.
Until justice flows to the grassroots, accountability begins where it matters most, and every Nigerian feels the impact of governance at their doorstep, our democracy remains incomplete, our freedom compromised, and our future at risk.
Other allied issues shall be unpacked in our next phase.
To be continued…
