Confusion has gripped several local government areas in Lagos State following Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unexpected directive that barred the 57 newly elected local government and Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen from appointing Secretaries to Local Governments and supervisory councillors.
The announcement came as a surprise during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Sports Ground of Lagos House, Ikeja.
Many political followers and hopeful appointees have been left disappointed, especially those promised positions during election campaigns.
Instead, Governor Sanwo-Olu instructed that each chairman should appoint only a Chief of Staff to help manage daily operations, pending further instructions.
This move has sparked uncertainty across council areas.
“We are living through a new era of local government autonomy, fiscal and administrative independence now affirmed by the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the governor said.
He stressed that while the new council leaders now have direct access to council funds, they must embrace responsibility and transparency.
“Use this autonomy wisely. Guard it with transparency. Let your tenure reflect not political entitlement, but public responsibility,” he added.
The Governor’s stance has put many political hopefuls on hold, as the long-anticipated appointments now remain suspended.
Meanwhile, council leaders are expected to focus on community needs within their first 30 to 60 days in office.
In addition, Sanwo-Olu reminded them that Lagosians want tangible results not empty promises.
He urged them to align their efforts with the THEMES+ agenda, which focuses on transportation, health, education, the environment, and social inclusion.
“The people have placed in your hands not just votes, but their dreams,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Your performance will be measured not by the eloquence of your speeches, but by the visibility of your actions.”
“Leadership must never be about personal gain; it must be about public impact,” he warned.
Furthermore, he assured the new chairmen of the state’s support, but with clear expectations of excellence.
“Your success is our success. The state government stands firmly with you. We will support you. We will work with you. But we will also hold you to the highest standards,” Sanwo-Olu said.
On behalf of the chairmen, Sesan Olowa of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government expressed gratitude and pledged loyalty to the state’s goals.
Shortly after, he was elected as Chairman of Conference 57.
“We will uphold the values of the APC and ensure development touches every ward and community under our care,” Olowa said.
However, for now, those hoping for swift appointments will need to wait as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration reshapes expectations for local governance in Lagos.
