GADI Questions Development in Oriire LGA; Cites Security, Infrastructure Deficits Despite Billions in FG Allocation to Council Since 2023
A civic advocacy organisation, the Grassroots Accountability and Development Initiative (GADI), has expressed concern over what it described as inadequate development in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State despite the council’s reported receipt of billions of naira in allocations since 2023.
In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, the group alleged that the local government, with an estimated population of more than 200,000 residents, currently has only one police station serving the entire area.
According to GADI, the situation has left many communities vulnerable to criminal activities and other security challenges, particularly amid growing concerns over attacks on schools and rural communities in different parts of the country.
The group further alleged that Oriire Local Government had received over N13 billion in allocations since 2023 but questioned the level of infrastructure and social development across the council area.
It also raised concerns over the condition of public schools, claiming that several primary and secondary schools in the local government lack perimeter fencing and other basic security measures, exposing pupils and staff to potential security threats.
“People are worried because despite the huge allocations coming to local governments, there is little visible development on the ground. Schools are not fenced, roads are in poor condition, healthcare centres are struggling, and there is only one police station serving the entire local government,” the statement read.
GADI maintained that improved transparency and accountability in the management of local government funds would help address developmental challenges at the grassroots level.
The group also advocated greater financial autonomy for local governments, arguing that increased independence, coupled with effective oversight, would enhance service delivery and accelerate development in local communities.
According to the organisation, allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) to local governments in Oyo State have risen significantly in recent years, yet many communities continue to grapple with inadequate infrastructure, poor road networks, insufficient healthcare facilities and other basic amenities.
The group therefore called for greater scrutiny of local government finances by relevant anti-corruption agencies, civil society organisations and community stakeholders to ensure that public resources are utilised for the benefit of residents.
GADI stressed that sustainable national development would require more accountability and transparency at the grassroots, adding that meaningful progress could be achieved if Nigeria’s 774 local government areas effectively channel public funds into projects that directly impact citizens.