Local Government Autonomy and the Challenges of Service Delivery at the Grassroots: a Case Study of Osun State (2019–2023)

This study critically examines local government autonomy and the challenges of service delivery at the grassroots level in Osun State, Nigeria, between 2019 and 2023. A descriptive survey research design was adopted to collect standardized and measurable information from respondents regarding their experiences and perceptions of local government autonomy. The findings reveal that financial dependency, administrative inefficiencies, and political interference significantly hinder the ability of local governments to function effectively and deliver essential services. Many respondents believe that local governments lack financial independence, relying heavily on federal and state allocations, which limits their ability to execute projects and address community needs. Additionally, bureaucratic delays and leadership instability further weaken governance structures, making it difficult to ensure efficient service delivery. Political interference was also identified as a critical challenge, with leadership appointments often influenced by political affiliations rather than competence. These issues have negatively impacted infrastructure development, healthcare, and education at the grassroots level. The study suggests that strengthening financial independence, improving bureaucratic efficiency, and reducing political interference can enhance local governance. Furthermore, community participation and transparency measures should be reinforced to improve service delivery and accountability. Addressing these challenges through policy reforms and institutional restructuring will help local governments in Osun State function more effectively and fulfill their mandate of providing essential services to the people.