Sanwo-Olu bars Lagos LG chairmen from appointing aides

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed all newly sworn-in chairmen of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State to suspend political appointments for 60 days after assuming office.

The governor ordered that only the appointment of a Chief of Staff should be made during this period, advising that other appointments be put on hold to enable chairmen fully understand the challenges within their constituencies.

It was gathered that some council chairmen who had already made appointments beyond the Chief of Staff have begun reversing them to avoid sanctions.

The directive was contained in a circular dated July 31, 2025, with reference number MLG/LGA/C.27/S./VOL.XIV/496, issued by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Kikelomo Bolarinwa.

According to the circular, the governor’s instruction specifically affects positions such as Supervisors, Special Advisers, and Senior Special Assistants.

“I write to refer to the directive of Mr. Governor at the swearing-in ceremony in respect of the appointment of political office holders in the Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas,” Bolarinwa stated.

She added, “The appointment of the Chief of Staff is the only approved role for now. All other appointments should be stepped down until further directive.”

Council chairmen were further instructed to reverse any appointments already made, except for the Chief of Staff, and await additional guidance.