“Don’t Bombard Me Alone” — Tinubu Tells Nigerians to Hold Local Governments Accountable Too

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians and the media to hold local government officials accountable for how public funds are used, saying the responsibility for development should not be placed on the federal government alone.

The president made the remarks during an Iftar (breaking of fast) meeting with media executives at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where discussions touched on governance, accountability, and Nigeria’s economic challenges.

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Local Governments Now Receiving More Funds

According to Tinubu, reforms in the country’s fiscal structure have opened up the system, allowing local governments to receive their allocations more directly.

He argued that since local councils are now getting their own funds, Nigerians should also scrutinize how those funds are spent.

“Local governments are now getting their money. How they use it is in your hands. Don’t bombard me alone. Hold them accountable too,” the president said.

His comments appear to reflect recent developments following decisions affecting local government financial autonomy.

The Accountability Debate

Tinubu’s statement has quickly sparked discussions across Nigeria, with many citizens debating the role of different levels of government.

Some analysts agree with the president’s position, arguing that development in areas such as local roads, markets, sanitation, and community services often falls under the responsibility of local government councils.

Others believe the federal government still carries significant responsibility for the country’s economic direction and national policies.

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Why the Issue Matters

Nigeria operates a federal system where power and resources are shared between the federal government, state governments, and local governments.

However, critics have long argued that local governments have limited autonomy in practice because many state governments control their finances through joint allocation accounts.

Recent court decisions and policy discussions have reignited conversations about financial independence for local councils and whether such reforms could improve grassroots development.

Nigerians React

Following Tinubu’s comment, reactions from Nigerians have been mixed.

Some people welcomed the call for broader accountability, saying that corruption and inefficiency can exist at every level of government.

Others questioned whether local governments truly have the independence needed to manage their funds effectively.

For many citizens, the debate highlights a larger issue: how to ensure that public funds actually translate into visible development in communities.

A Conversation That May Grow Toward 2027

With Nigeria gradually moving toward the 2027 general elections, statements like this are likely to fuel further debate about governance, responsibility, and leadership.

Whether at the federal, state, or local level, the demand for transparency and accountability continues to grow among Nigerians who want to see real improvements in their daily lives.