Plateau Assembly Shortens Tenure For Local Government Officials
The Plateau State House of Assembly has passed a significant amendment, reducing the tenure of elected local government officials from three years to two. This change is part of the recently amended Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) Law of 2024.
The decision to shorten the tenure follows the introduction of a bill sponsored by Joseph Gokum, representing the Kanke Constituency (APC). The bill sought to revise the 2017 Local Government Councils Law, particularly focusing on the duration of service for local government officials.
Speaking to the press in Jos, Matthew Kwarpo, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, explained that the decision was influenced by the recent financial autonomy granted to local governments across the country.
“The amendment specifically addresses the tenure of elected local government officials, reducing it from three years to two,” Kwarpo stated. He added that this adjustment is a cautious approach to implementing the newly granted financial autonomy.
“It’s prudent to begin with a shorter tenure of two years to assess the impact of financial autonomy on local governance. Starting with a longer tenure could complicate efforts to address any emerging issues effectively,” Kwarpo noted.
The Assembly emphasized its legislative authority over local government affairs and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining necessary oversight. Kwarpo assured the public that the amendment was made with the state’s best interests in mind, aiming to enhance oversight and flexibility as local governments navigate their new financial responsibilities.
