Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has told the newly sworn-in chairmen of the 57 local councils not to appoint Secretaries to Local Governments or supervisory councillors just yet. This sudden order has left many people in the councils confused.
Right after the inauguration event at the Lagos House Sports Ground in Ikeja, the governor made the announcement. Instead of appointing new key officers, he told the chairmen to pick Chiefs of Staff to help them manage daily affairs. He added that the state would inform them when to make further appointments.
This unexpected decision has left many political hopefuls unsure of their futures. Before the elections, some people had been promised positions, but now those promises are on hold.
Sanwo-Olu advised the chairmen to use their first 30 to 60 days to understand what their communities need. He told them to lead with fairness and make the people’s well-being their top concern.
The governor reminded them that the Supreme Court now supports full local government autonomy. This means they will have direct access to their council’s money and must take full responsibility for how it’s used.
“We are now in a new phase where local governments are fully in charge of their funds,” Sanwo-Olu said. “You have no excuses. You must be accountable. Leadership is not for personal gain, but for public service.”
He warned that any chairman who performs poorly or misuses the public’s trust would face consequences. He also urged them to follow the THEMES+ agenda of the state.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagosians expect real changes in their communities. Things like good roads, clean streets, working hospitals, strong schools, and youth programs are top priorities. He stressed that actions, not words, will show whether the chairmen are doing a good job.
“You must bring development to every corner of your council,” he said. “Make sure that no part of your community is left out, including rural and riverine areas. Your projects should reflect our goals in transportation, health, education, environment, security, and social inclusion.”
The governor promised to support the chairmen in their roles but said they must meet high standards.
“Our success depends on your success,” Sanwo-Olu said. “We’ll work with you, but we will also hold you responsible.”
Speaking for the new chairmen, Ibeju-Lekki LGA Chairman, Sesan Olowa, thanked the governor and residents for trusting them. He was later chosen to lead the group of 57 chairmen and promised to promote APC values and deliver meaningful projects.
“We will make sure every part of our local areas feels the impact of good leadership,” Olowa said.
The inauguration event had many top government officials in attendance. These included Sanwo-Olu’s wife, the deputy governor, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and party supporters.
