Intergovernmental Fiscal Relations and Performance of Selected Local Government Councils in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the effect of intergovernmental fiscal relations and performance of local government councils in Anambra State, Nigeria. The research laid emphasis on the state experience between the periods of 2002 to 2017. The three senatorial zones of the state were carefully selected generalizations were made based on the nexus between the intergovernmental fiscal relations and local government performance. Information for the study was obtained via a structured questionnaire distributed to some senior staff of the local governments selected. In addition, secondary data from documentaries, textual and other library sources were extensively consulted and utilized for the study. The study was anchored on Whaere’s theory of federalism (1953). The study revealed that local governments in Anambra State despite their constitutional provision they remain a mere appendages of the state and federal government. The operations of the State-Local Government Joint Account System gave room for encroachment, diversions, deductions, delay and non-remittance of statutory allocations and internal revenue source of the local government councils by the state government. This scenario has resulted in poor revenue base and ultimately poor performance of local governments. The study recommends a constitutional amendment that will guarantee financial autonomy to local government councils in Nigeria. Keywords: Intergovernmental relations, Intergovernmental fiscal relations, Local government, Autonomy, Federalism DOI: 10.7176/PPAR/10-8-05 Publication date: August 31 st 2020