DECENTRALISATION OF POWER AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION ANALYSING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN NIGERIA. A CASE STUDY OF IKA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN DELTA STATE.

This study investigates the relationship between state and local governments in Nigeria, focusing on how decentralisation of power and the allocation of resources affect the functioning of local government administration. Using Ika South Local Government Area in Delta State as a case study, the research critically examines the extent to which the principles of decentralisation are practised and their implications for grassroots development. The motivation for this study stems from the persistent challenges faced by local governments in delivering effective public services despite the constitutional backing for decentralised governance.The main objectives were to assess the administrative autonomy of Ika South Local Government under the current decentralisation structure, analyse how resource allocation patterns influence service delivery, explore the nature of intergovernmental power relations between the state and local government, and identify practical solutions to improve governance at the grassroots level. The study employed a survey research design, using a sample size of 300 respondents, with data collected through questionnaires. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on Nigeria’s governance structure and offer practical recommendations for policymakers, scholars, and development practitioners seeking to strengthen local government performance and improve service delivery outcomes in the country.