LG Autonomy: “774 Thieves Better Than One Big Thief – Oshiomhole

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, has voiced strong support for the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s local governments, emphasizing its importance for grassroots development.

Speaking on Monday at a forum organized by the House of Representatives on local government autonomy, Oshiomhole praised the Supreme Court’s July 11, 2024, ruling, which upheld local governments’ financial independence.

The former Edo State governor stressed the need for accountability and character in governance, particularly at the local government level. 

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Highlighting the critical role of local government chairmen, he urged them to prioritize essential public services like roads, hospitals, and other infrastructure to directly benefit their communities.

Oshiomhole lightened the mood with a controversial remark: “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief.” 

He added that this would allow every local government in Nigeria to produce one or two billionaires, instead of concentrating wealth in the hands of a single individual in the state.

The comment has sparked discussions on governance and the balance between decentralization and accountability in Nigeria’s political landscape.