Between Rhetoric And Reforms: Citizens’ Perception Of Local Government Openness In Selected States Of Nigeria

his briefing paper examines the evolution of the local government system in Nigeria and how it has fared in driving grassroots development in the country. Our conclusions of research conducted in selected local government areas (LGAs) in four states of Nigeria, including Borno (Konduga & Jere LGAs), Ekiti (Ado-Ekiti & Ikere LGAs), Enugu (Aninri & Enugu South LGAs), and Delta (Aniocha North & Warri North LGAs). Focusing on residents’ perception in the areas, our research demonstrates that much of the intended value of local governance has been lost because of factors including lack of autonomy, transparency and accountability, poor oversight, and lack of citizens’ participation