Lagos State House of Assembly has launched a comprehensive audit of all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state.
The exercise was officially inaugurated yesterday at the Lateef Jakande Hall of the Assembly Complex by the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts (Local), Hon. Prince Nureni Akinsanya, who represented the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
Akinsanya explained that the audit is designed to promote openness, fiscal discipline and responsible management of public funds within the local government system.
He said the exercise derives its legal backing from Section 52 of the Local Government Administration Law 2024, as well as Rule 116 of the Standing Orders of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
According to him, the review will serve as a corrective mechanism, helping to uncover irregularities where they exist and offering guidance to council officials on appropriate financial and administrative procedures.
“The purpose of this exercise is to thoroughly examine records and determine whether due process has been followed. Where shortcomings are identified, necessary corrections will be made and officials will be guided accordingly,” he said.
The lawmaker noted that the committee had already begun its work and expressed optimism that the audit would address identified gaps and ensure strict compliance with established regulations by local government chairmen and other officials.
He also disclosed that the committee would conduct a detailed review of the 2023 Auditor-General’s report on local governments, assuring that the process would be carried out impartially and without bias.
Officials expected to appear before the committee include council chairmen and vice chairmen, leaders of legislative councils, members of executive committees, council managers, treasurers and other principal officers.
Akinsanya assured that the outcome of the exercise, including findings and recommendations, would be submitted to the House for further legislative consideration and action.
The audit commenced with the examination of Epe Local Government, Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, Ifelodun LCDA, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA and Ojo Local Government.