The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Ogun State Chapter, categorically refutes the fabricated claims alleging interference by the Governor in Local Government administration. The Association further reaffirms its strong confidence in and steadfast support for the purposeful, people-centred, and inclusive leadership of His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON.
Under the Governor’s administration, the relationship between the Ogun State Government and the Local Government Councils has continued to thrive on the principles of transparency, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to deepening governance and development at the grassroots. Financial engagements and statutory processes affecting Local Governments are consistently managed in strict accordance with due process and established regulations, thereby sustaining stability, accountability, and public trust across all councils.
ALGON acknowledges and commends His Excellency’s respect for the autonomy of Local Government Councils, particularly his non-interference in the day-to-day administration of the councils and the operations of the State Joint Local Government Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC). This governance approach has strengthened institutional confidence and promoted responsible, disciplined local administration.
The Association further commends JAAC’s sustained commitment to meeting statutory obligations, particularly the regular payment of pensions and pension-related responsibilities, including first-line charges. These obligations include monthly payments to traditional rulers, primary school teachers, and other statutory beneficiaries. This consistent discharge of responsibilities has significantly eased the welfare burden on retired Local Government employees and reinforced confidence in public service. It reflects a clear understanding of the social contract between the government and both serving and retired workers.
ALGON emphasises that financial governance at the local government level is guided by prudence and accountability, and the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) remains the appropriate mechanism for ensuring proper planning, responsible expenditure, and the prioritisation of statutory responsibilities.
His Excellency keep emphasising that funds within the JAAC account are not expended arbitrarily but are carefully managed in line with agreed obligations and fiscal realities. Key responsibilities and guiding principles include :
1. Settlement of outstanding backlogs and inherited financial obligations, such as unpaid outstanding pension and gratuity liabilities.
2. Timely payment of pensions and other statutory first-line charges;
3. Ensuring that available funds are judiciously applied to meet essential obligations before embarking on new expenditures;
4. Preventing fiscal shortfalls that could hinder Local Governments from meeting their constitutional and social responsibilities.
Cash available for spending must therefore be properly planned, processed, and prioritised to avoid situations where Local Governments are unable to meet their obligations. Fiscal discipline remains central to sustaining effective grassroots governance.
ALGON remains confident that the collaborative framework fostered by the Governor will continue to deliver impactful development outcomes, improved service delivery, and sustainable growth across communities in Ogun State. The Association reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting policies, programmes, and initiatives that promote accountable governance and enhance the welfare of the people at the grassroots. In this spirit, we wish His Excellency, our amiable Leader, a happy, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year.
E.Signed:
Hon.Dr.Adeyemo Folasade,
ALGON.Ogun State Chapter.
