PROBING THE CONSTITUTIONAL ROLE OF STATE HOUSES OF ASSEMBLY IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNANCE

The Nigerian Constitution guaranteed a system of local government by way of democratically elected councils. However in recognition of the powers of the States in the conduct of local government, the Constitution granted the State House of Assembly power to establish the councils and define their composition, structure, functions and finance, among others. This paper, utilising doctrinal method, will review the constitutional, statutory and judicial authorities that are germane to the challenges confronting local government administration in Nigeria, emphasizing the overreaching influence of the State House of Assembly in the area. The paper concludes by proffering solutions, inclusive of constitutional reforms, towards the betterment of the system.