GOVERNMENT AREA

This study examines efficiency management and accountability within the Nigerian local government system, using Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State as a case study. Local governments are strategically positioned to drive grassroots development; however, their operational efficiency and accountability mechanisms are frequently compromised by systemic challenges. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the extent to which financial accountability and administrative efficiency impact public service delivery in Akoko-Edo. Using a mixed-methods research design, data was gathered through structured questionnaires administered to local government staff and residents, alongside semi-structured interviews with key council officials. Secondary data was sourced from local government financial reports, academic journals, and official publications. The theoretical framework for this study is anchored on the Principal-Agent Theory and Democratic Decentralization Theory. The findings reveal that while institutional frameworks for accountability exist, their efficacy is severely undermined by: Interference: Excessive political encroachment from the state government, particularly through the State Joint Local Government Account (SJLGA). Capacity Gaps: Inadequate training of administrative staff and weak internal audit mechanisms. Lack of Transparency: Poor public access to financial records, which stifles community engagement and oversight. Consequently, the study notes that inefficiency and a lack of robust accountability have resulted in dilapidated rural infrastructure, suboptimal healthcare services, and a general deficit in grassroots development. Based on these findings, the study recommends: Financial Autonomy: The full implementation of local government autonomy to eliminate restrictive state-level financial controls. Institutional Reforms: Strengthening internal and external audit processes, alongside regular capacity-building workshops for local government personnel. Community-Inclusive Budgeting: Adopting open-governance frameworks that allow Akoko-Edo residents to actively participate in project formulation and monitoring, thereby fostering a culture of mutual accountability.

The purpose of the study was to find out the the socio-economic determinants of marital stability in Oredo Local government area, Edo State. It was a descriptive research with emphasis on survey approach. Purposive sampling method was used to cover both Urban and Rural areas of study. Findings revealed that marital conflicts did exist. The results of the two hypotheses tested revealed that there were no significant differences in the causes of marital conflicts among couples based on level of education and length of marriage. In conclusion, the inevitability of conflicts in any form of marriage was established. To prevent or manage crisis therefore will depend largely on the mutual understanding of couples involved. Based on this conclusion, it is recommended that adequate provision be made for both preventive, remedial and rehabilitative counseling, interventions through different bodies such as government and non-governmental organizations {NGO’s} for the married and prospective couples to enhance marital stability in our societies.

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of dumpsite on environmental quality in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area. To guide the study three research questions were raised. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population of the study was made up of all residents and shop owners in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area and the sample of this study comprised of 100 respondents drawn from the population. The research instrument used was a questionnaire validated by experts. The data collected were analyzed using the descriptive analysis of simple percentages and frequency counts. Some of the findings of the study include; the people in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area have favorable attitude towards dumping of waste. And the perceived effects of dumpsite on the health of people in Ovia Northeast Local Government Area are disease/headaches, breeding ground for disease vectors, contaminated water and odour/ smell. Based on the findings some of the recommendations include; Governments have to set strict regulations in order to prevent illegal dumping. Government should ensure proper management and construction of dumpsites