THE ROLE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCILS IN RURAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN EDO STATE NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

 The research work examined the role of local government councils in rural socio economic development in Edo state Nigeria. Four objectives and research questions were raised for the study .The study employed survey research design The study made use of questionnaire  and interview to obtain data from respondent. Data were analysed using tables and percentages The study found that found out that that Esan Central  Local Government has varied sources of revenue and that that Federal and state allocations are a major source of revenue for Esan Central  Local Government.Also the study showed that Esan Central  Local Government is faced with numerous challenges in revenue generation and that revenue generation has had an impact on the development of Esan Central  Local Government. The study concluded that the challenges of local government being an enviable institution for democratic participation, an effective and efficient system for socio-economic development of the grass root and accountable among others are attitudinal and institutionaland thus recommended thatThe oversight function of the State Assemblies, Office of the Auditor General of LG among others should be strengthened to checkmate corrupt practice rather colluding with the operatives of LG to perpetuate corruption. Such arrangement might be view as a form of intervention but it is required to ensure compliance with Financial Instructions.