LG Autonomy a ‘game changer’, 9,000 Councilors declare, back Tinubu
The National Councillors Forum of Nigeria has formally declared its support for President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, citing the restoration of Local Government autonomy as a landmark achievement for grassroots development.
At a news conference Wednesday in Abuja, the forum described the current administration’s policies as transformational, noting that the “Renewed Hope” agenda is now a living reality in rural communities across the federation.
The forum which also has former councilors as members, emphasized that “as the closest arm of government to the people, councilors understand the aspirations of the citizens and see the direct impact of the President’s strategic reforms”.
Those who spoke on behalf of the forum were President, National Councillors Forum of Nigeria, Dr. Evoh Okechukwu Nwikegwu, the councilor representing Enenaezeraku Ward in Ohaozora Local Government of Ebonyi state; National Coordinator, ST/HT Grassroots Coordinators of Development, Hon. Hyacinth Horvel Turnoe; and National Coordinator, Citizens Network for Peace and Development, Chief Okorie Ikechukwu Rapheal.
The forum which boasts a formidable nationwide network of 8,809 councillors covering all 774 Local Government Areas and 176,836 polling units, said it is one of the largest and most influential grassroots political structures in the country, with a presence felt from urban centres to the most remote villages.
It specifically singled out the restoration of Local Government autonomy as the administration’s crowning achievement, labeling it a game changer for funding and accountability.
According to the group, “this move, combined with improved rural infrastructure and strategic reforms in agriculture, has laid a solid foundation for national prosperity”.
They also commended the President’s efforts in strengthening national security through the modernization of the Armed Forces and enhanced intelligence integration.
The councilors called for nationwide mobilization, urging ward leaders and grassroots coordinators to take the message of the Tinubu administration to every household in Nigeria.
They maintained that the President has demonstrated the necessary courage and competence to deserve a second term to consolidate his work.
National Coordinator, Citizens Network for Peace and Development, Chief Okorie Ikechukwu Rapheal, on his part, asked Nigerians to give the National Assembly a chance to deliver on the amended version of the Electoral Act.
