Problems of Local Government

Local governments are confronted by a number of problems among them are:

(i) Inadequate Funding: Funds for local governments are insufficient. The federal and state allocations are not enough. Many local governments do not generate enough funds on their own to finance their activities.

(ii) Financial Mismanagement: Local government funds are not utilized appropriately. Some funds are embezzled or diverted to unprofitable courses.

(iii) Political Interference or Excesses Control from Other Levels of Government: Federal and state governments exert overbearing influences on the policies and activities of local governments. The State governments interfere excessively in day to day running of local governments.

(iv) Dearth of Qualified Personnel: Some local government workers are poorly qualified. The better-qualified people prefer to work with the private sector, and federal and state governments, where the condition of service is better. This affects the effectiveness and efficiency of service delivery.

(v) Size of Local government affects its viability. Some local governments are far too large or too small for effective administration. Some of them are unable to generate enough funds.

(vi) Indiscriminate Creation of Local governments has generated a number of problems. It has generated boundary disputes and other community clashes.

(vii) Tribalism, NepotismNepotism is the act of granting an advantage, privilege, or position to relatives or close friends in an occupation or field. These fields may include but are not limited to: business,... More, and Favouritism are other problems. Some political leaders may appoint officials and sight projects based on favouritism.

(viii) Victimization of Opponents: Some parts of the local governments may suffer or be victimized by some political leaders, especially where it is perceived that the area/part did not vote for them in the election.

(ix) A local government may suffer if there is no synergy between the local government administration and the people in that locality. This will affect their support, participation, and ownership of Local government activities.