Why Nigerians Ignore Local Elections and How Decentralisation Can Revive Democracy

Recent council polls in the FCT, Kano and Rivers States saw record low turnout. Many Nigerians stayed home not out of indifference but because they feel local government has no real power. Nigeria’s system is overly centralised. Federal and state authorities hold most resources and decision-making. Local councils exist largely in name and lack the authority to impact daily life. Tasks like community security, water supply, roads and basic education should be managed by empowered councils. When citizens see their vote shape these services, turnout will rise naturally. True reform means devolving fiscal, administrative and political powers to local governments. Only then will grassroots democracy in Nigeria come alive.

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