It’s better to have 774 thieves than one big thief – Adams Oshiomhole

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing the Edo North senatorial district, has expressed his strong support for the financial autonomy of local governments in Nigeria. 

Oshiomhole’s comments came in response to the July 11, 2024, Supreme Court ruling that upheld the financial autonomy of local governments.

Speaking at a forum on local government autonomy organized by the House of Representatives on Monday, December 2, the former Governor of Edo State emphasized the importance of character in governance and accountability. He pointed out the significant responsibilities of local government chairmen, particularly due to their proximity to the people, and urged them to allocate resources wisely for essential infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and other public services.

Oshiomhole remarked, “It’s better to have 774 local government chairmen who are thieves than one big thief,” adding that with this arrangement, every local government in Nigeria would produce one or two billionaires, rather than having just one billionaire in the state.