- Governor Sanwo-Olu suspends political appointments for 60 days, except for Chief of Staff.
- The directive aims to foster transparency and better grassroots governance.
- Chairmen are urged to assess local challenges before making further appointments.
Lagos State governor. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has directed all newly sworn-in chairmen of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across the state to suspend political appointments,except that of the Chief of Staff, for the first 60 days of their administration.
Ekohotblog reports that the directive, issued through an official circular dated July 31, 2025, with reference number MLG/LGA/C.27/S./VOL.XIV/496, was signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa.
The circular emphasized that all prior appointments made beyond the Chief of Staff must be reversed immediately in line with the governor’s instruction.
“I write to refer to the directive of Mr. Governor at the swearing-in ceremony in respect of the appointment of political office holders in the Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, particularly the Supervisors, Special Advisers, and Senior Special Assistants,” the circular read.
“You are enjoined to note the above and revert any appointment that has been made except the Chief of Staff,” Bolarinwa added.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, during the swearing-in ceremony, explained that the directive was a deliberate effort to promote transparency, accountability, and result-oriented governance at the grassroots level.
He stated that the temporary halt in appointments would give the chairmen time to properly assess their constituencies and understand the challenges facing each sector.
“We are going to give you time to settle in, to understand the rudiments of the work, to go around all your communities, hit the ground with an understanding of what people truly, really want,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“Make sure that you gather enough information about the real expectations of your people. We will give you 30 to 60 days before the issue of supervisors or SLG will come about.”
The governor also issued a stern reminder on the ethical responsibilities attached to public office, urging the newly elected chairmen to serve with integrity and avoid treating their positions as personal entitlement
“Leadership is not about what you gain from the office but about the impact you make on the lives of the people. You are the closest to the grassroots; don’t waste that opportunity,” he added.
