Philippine E-Journals

Tripartite Intergovernmental Relations in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: Issues and the Way Forward for Local Governments

DALHATU MUSA YUSHA’U

 

Abstract:

Modern governance (especially in a federal state) demands interaction and interdependence among state actors and tiers of government for their mutual benefit. This relationship is sometimes marred with skirmishes that impede the performance of government units, specifically, the local government. This paper, through theoretical exploration x-rays the notion and concepts of intergovernmental relations and local government; the nature of tripartite intergovernmental relations and intergovernmental conflicts in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic; the implications of the relationship and the way forward for local governments. The findings reveal that tripartite intergovernmental relations in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic operate and manifest principally in the political and administrative domain, constitutional and legal domain, and economic and fiscal domain, among other spheres. Constitutional lacuna, poor and lack of prompt interpretation of relevant laws, suspicion, lack of compromise and local government autonomy, as well as unacceptable revenue sharing formula are the banes of the tripartite intergovernmental squabbles in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. It is equally discovered that the third tier of government is the worse hit; hence, it suffers the unfortunate consequences of the crises that also bear its ugly head in poor performance at the local level. The article, therefore, recommends the review of Nigeria’s Constitution to resolve some of the lacunas while Supreme Court gives a prompt and proper interpretation of the gray areas. There must be a fiscal review that will encourage various component units to harness their economic potentials and contribute to the national revenue. Again, substantial local government autonomy within the premise of the constitution is necessary. This will lead to the abolition of the State-Local Government Joint Account and mandate 10% internally generated revenue to local governments by the state governments. Lastly, the various institutions for the management of intergovernmental conflicts should be rejigged and new ones created.