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Plateau Assembly Reduces Local Government Tenure To Two Years

Published

4 months ago

Aug 29, 2024.

Plateau Assembly Local Government Tenure

The Plateau House of Assembly has approved an amendment reducing the tenure of elected local government officials from three years to two, as part of the newly revised Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Law of 2024.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Matthew Kwarpo, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, explained in a press briefing in Jos that the decision was largely motivated by the recent financial autonomy granted to local governments across the country.

The amendment was initiated by a bill sponsored by Joseph Gokum (APC/Kanke Constituency) to revise the 2017 Local Government Councils Law.

“The specific clause amended relates to the tenure of elected local government officials.

“Previously, chairmen, deputy chairmen, and councillors were expected to serve for three years. The amendment now limits their tenure to two years,” Kwarpo explained.

Kwarpo further noted that the decision to shorten the tenure was made to cautiously implement the newly granted financial autonomy.

“It’s wise to start with a shorter tenure of two years to observe how the financial autonomy impacts local governance.

Plateau Assembly Local Government Tenure

“Extending the tenure to four years in a pilot scheme with potential challenges could make it difficult to address issues effectively,” he added.

The Assembly also reaffirmed its legislative authority over local government matters and its commitment to carrying out necessary oversight functions.

Kwarpo assured the public that the amendment was made in the state’s best interest and not for any ulterior motives.