Former Secretary to the Bauchi State Government (SSG) and governorship aspirant under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Barrister Ibrahim Kashim, has pledged to enforce full local government autonomy if elected governor in 2027. He made this commitment shortly after declaring his intention to run, criticizing state governors for ignoring the Supreme Court's directive on local government autonomy.
Kashim Criticizes Governors Over Autonomy Delay
Kashim lamented that despite multiple Supreme Court judgments mandating local government autonomy, implementation remains elusive. He recalled a time when local governments were functional, with local contractors handling projects like school supplies, boreholes, and road repairs, boosting the local economy. He noted that the military regime truncated local government autonomy, and civilian governments since 1979 failed to restore it.
Supreme Court Ruling Ignored
Kashim pointed out that governors resist autonomy because it reduces their control over substantial funds meant for local governments. He vowed not to follow this path, promising that each local government would receive its allocation directly and be held accountable. Under his leadership, local governments would manage primary schools, local roads, dispensaries, and other community needs.
Weakened Local Government Chairmen
The aspirant also criticized the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) for further weakening local government chairmen. He argued that chairmen often lack knowledge of contracts awarded in their areas, with contractors from outside executing projects without local involvement. This, he said, reduces value and economic benefits for the community.
Grassroots Development Through Autonomy
Kashim emphasized that accelerated grassroots development is possible if local governments execute projects under strict monitoring, with the state setting standards. He believes autonomy will create value and boost economic activities at the local level, drawing from his experience as SSG and with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).
10-Point Agenda Unveiled
Kashim unveiled a 10-point agenda focusing on agriculture, education, healthcare, and other critical sectors to transform Bauchi State. He promised a people-oriented government aimed at lifting citizens out of poverty. After leaving the Bala Mohammed administration, he resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and informed the governor of his ambition.
Addressing Bauchi's Challenges
Kashim noted Bauchi's high number of out-of-school children and poverty index in the North-East, calling it unfortunate given the state's resources. He highlighted that Bauchi, the fifth largest state by landmass in Nigeria, has no reason to be poor, especially if agriculture is prioritized.
