By Kolade Ismail
As the Osun State chapter of APC backed up its rhetoric with action and took over the administration of the local governments in the state on Monday sequel to the Appeal Court verdict in its favour, we now have a dual power situation in the State.
In the context of Marxist theory, dual power is seen as a transitional phase in the development of a revolutionary situation, where the existing state power is challenged by a new, emerging power.
However, in the context of a state with one party controlling the state government and another party controlling the local governments, dual power can lead to a range of challenges and implications that need to be carefully managed.
Even with the struggle for fiscal autonomy for the local government administration in Nigeria, the state House of Assemblies still make laws for the administration of the local governments.
Therefore, dual power in a state with one party controlling the state government and another party controlling the local government can lead to a complex and potentially conflicting situation.
This phenomenon can result in power struggles, conflicting interests, and priorities between the state and local governments.
Some of the key implications are better imagined than experienced by a state. I will review some of them in the context of the Osun situation and also offer possible political solutions in the second installment of this piece.
Conflict and Power Struggles:
The coexistence of two power centers can lead to conflicts and power struggles between the state and local governments, hindering decision-making and policy implementation. The fiscal autonomy of the local government comes to the fore here. In practical terms, how would the possible disagreement be managed?
Inefficient Governance:
Dual power can result in inefficient governance, as the two power centers may have different priorities and agendas, leading to a lack of coordination and coherence in policy implementation. With the gubernatorial election in sight and both parties want to deliver dividends of democracy to attract support from the electorates, the challenges that may arise are better imagined.
Representation and Accountability:
The existence of two power centers raises questions about representation and accountability, as it may be unclear which government is truly representative of the people’s interests. Which party is really in power? Whose interest are they representing? These are some of the questions that can only be answered on the field.
Potential for Gridlock:
Dual power can lead to gridlock, as the two power centers may not be able to agree on key policies or decisions.
Impact on Economic Development:
The uncertainty and conflict arising from dual power can deter investment and hinder economic development.
Kolade Ismail, a politician, writes from Ode-Omu in Ayedaade Local Government Area of Osun State
