In recent days, the political landscape of Lagos State has been stirred by the nominations of Commissioners from the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. While this move is a step towards the formation of a more comprehensive and diverse administration, the glaring disparities in the distribution of nominees across the LGAs cannot be overlooked. This inequality raises pertinent questions about the essence of governance, equity, inclusivity, and the path towards a progressive Greater Lagos.
It is both disheartening and concerning to note that the nominations appear to favour a select few LGAs over the rest. In particular, the concentration of 12 nominees from Eti Osa LGA and 3 from Lagos Mainland LGA, while the other 18 LGAs are allotted just 1 or 2 nominations, sends a troubling message about the balance of representation and resource allocation within our beloved state.
Such inequity in the selection process carries far-reaching implications for the governance of Lagos. The primary role of governance is to ensure that the diverse voices and needs of the entire populace are adequately represented and addressed. By neglecting the majority of LGAs in favour of a few, we risk creating a divide between the privileged and the marginalized, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement and underrepresentation among the citizens of Lagos State.
Inclusivity should be the cornerstone of any responsible and forward-thinking government. It is imperative that our leaders embrace diversity in all its forms – be it geographical, socio-economic, or cultural – and strive to create an administration that reflects the true essence of Lagos, with all its complexities and richness. An administration that is inclusive in its decision-making process and representative of all its citizens is better equipped to tackle the multifaceted challenges that our state faces.
To move towards a Greater Lagos characterized by equity, inclusivity, and progressivity, I offer the following recommendations:
Diverse Representation: The Governor’s office should make a conscious effort to ensure that nominees for key positions reflect the diversity of Lagos State. This entails a balanced distribution of appointments across all LGAs, giving each locality a fair opportunity to contribute to the governance of our state.
Meritocracy and Transparency: Nominations and appointments should be based on merit, qualifications, and a proven track record of service rather than political considerations. Transparent processes will help build trust and confidence in the government’s ability to make unbiased decisions.
Consultative Governance: The administration should actively engage with stakeholders from various LGAs to understand their unique challenges and aspirations. Regular town hall meetings, public forums, and consultations can provide valuable insights that inform policy and decision-making.
Capacity Building: Invest in the development of human capital across all LGAs, ensuring that citizens from every corner of Lagos have access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Resource Allocation: Allocate resources fairly and strategically to address the specific needs of each LGA. This will help bridge the gap between developed and underdeveloped areas, fostering a sense of unity and shared progress.
In conclusion, let us remember that a Greater Lagos can only be achieved when we embrace the principles of equity, inclusivity, and progressivity. The current disparities in the nominations of Commissioners serve as a wake-up call, urging us to reevaluate our commitment to representative governance. It is my sincere hope that the government will take heed of this call and work diligently to create a Lagos that truly belongs to all its residents, regardless of their place of origin or social status.
By Adekunle Razaq Aderibigbe (ARA)