The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on state governments, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations to monitor local government (LG) spending within their jurisdictions.
He stressed that urgent action is needed to curb corruption at the council level, as the current system of accountability does not inspire confidence.
Olukoyede made these remarks while addressing activists, traditional rulers, and LG officials at the Gombe State Local Government Summit in the North-East.
He criticised the trend of local councils becoming “automatic teller machines” for corrupt officials who exploit public funds for personal gain, taking advantage of the rural population’s lack of awareness.
Olukoyede also condemned the practice of LG chairmen residing in state capitals and only visiting their councils once a month to distribute federal allocations. He insisted that councils must not be mere formalities but should actively deliver good governance at the grassroots.
Highlighting common corrupt practices such as procurement fraud, embezzlement, and misappropriation of public funds, he warned that the EFCC would not spare any offenders.
“The consequences of corruption in our councils are evident: roads left in disrepair, underfunded hospitals unable to provide modern healthcare, and funds meant for development siphoned by a few greedy individuals,” Olukoyede said.
He emphasised that, despite financial autonomy for local governments following a Supreme Court ruling, council leaders remain accountable. Without constitutional immunity, their financial activities will be closely monitored by both anti-corruption agencies and state governments.
Olukoyede urged council chairmen to uphold transparency and financial integrity, adding that civil society and traditional rulers must also play active roles in holding LG administrations accountable.
He further stressed the need for proper checks and balances, ensuring that legislative arms of local governments function effectively rather than being sidelined.
“Without a fully autonomous system, council chairmen will continue to act as sole administrators, undermining due process and accountability,” he added.
He encouraged community leaders and civil society groups to track council budgets and report any evidence of corruption to the EFCC for swift action.