PUBLIC FINANCE

This study examines the relationship between state and local government fiscal interactions and their impact on development in Nigeria, with particular reference to Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State. Fiscal relations between the state and local governments play a crucial role in determining the capacity of local governments to provide essential services and execute developmental projects. However, concerns have been raised regarding the extent to which financial dependence, revenue allocation mechanisms, and state control over local government funds affect grassroots development.
The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and utilized both primary and secondary sources of data. Questionnaires and interviews were administered to selected government officials, community leaders, and residents of Oredo Local Government Area. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of state-local fiscal relations and their implications for local development.
Findings revealed that while statutory allocations from the federal government constitute a major source of local government revenue, state government involvement in the administration and disbursement of these funds significantly influences the implementation of developmental projects. The study further found that inadequate financial autonomy, delays in fund releases, and excessive state control over local government finances hinder effective service delivery and infrastructural development at the grassroots level. Conversely, improved fiscal autonomy and transparent intergovernmental financial relations were identified as critical factors for enhancing local development.
The study concludes that effective state-local fiscal relations are essential for sustainable development in local government areas. It recommends greater financial autonomy for local governments, transparent management of public funds, timely release of statutory allocations, and strengthened accountability mechanisms to ensure that financial resources are effectively utilized for developmental purposes. These measures would enhance grassroots governance and promote socio-economic development in Oredo Local Government Area and Nigeria at large.

This study examined the relationship between tax evasion, government revenue generation, and public service delivery in Nigeria, with a particular focus on identifying the underlying causes of tax evasion and its implications for fiscal sustainability. The research employed a quantitative survey design, and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to individuals, business owners, and government officials in Benin City, Edo State. A total of 360 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that tax evasion in Nigeria is significantly influenced by corruption among tax officials, weak enforcement mechanisms, multiple taxation, and lack of public trust in government. The results further showed that tax evasion has a statistically significant negative effect on government revenue generation and public service delivery. Specifically, the study established that reduced tax compliance limits the government’s ability to finance critical infrastructure, social programs, and public welfare initiatives, thereby perpetuating economic underdevelopment and fiscal instability. The study concluded that addressing tax evasion requires strengthening tax administration systems, ensuring transparency and accountability in public finance management, simplifying tax procedures, and enhancing taxpayer education. It also recommended that government agencies adopt modern technological innovations such as digital tax filing and electronic monitoring systems to minimize leakages and promote voluntary compliance