Mr. Fatai Ayoola, the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area in Lagos State, has stated that local governments in Nigeria have no excuse not to pay the newly-approved N70,000 minimum wage. Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ayoola emphasized that increased federal allocations and the recent grant of financial autonomy have equipped local governments to meet this obligation.
Ayoola highlighted that under President Bola Tinubu's administration, local governments have seen a 100 percent increase in federal allocations. This, he argued, should enable them to comfortably pay the minimum wage without compromising other projects and responsibilities.
"Ajeromi-Ifelodun pays more than the minimum wage when allowances are factored in," Ayoola said, adding that paying the new wage would not hinder ongoing or future projects in the local government. He also mentioned that the council provides regular palliatives to its staff and community members, such as subsidized rice and portions of cow meat.
Ayoola commended President Tinubu for ensuring financial autonomy for local governments, which he believes should enable them to have a greater impact on their communities and ensure better accountability. He urged local government officials to make necessary sacrifices for the benefit of the grassroots.
He also recalled the challenges faced by the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government during the 2020 #EndSARS protests, where their secretariat was burnt down by hoodlums. To rebuild, the council's management, including councillors, donated three months of their salaries. Despite losing 84 vehicles, including 26 brand new ones, the Federal Government did not provide support, though the Lagos State Government provided six vehicles.
In conclusion, Ayoola called on Nigerians to hold their local government chairmen accountable for their actions and the management of resources.
