The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) on Tuesday in Abuja urged President Goodluck Jonathan to help stop “unnecessary interference” in local government administration in the country.

The National President of ALGON, Mr Ozo Okafor, who led a delegation of the association on a courtesy visit to President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa,. made the call while speaking with State House correspondents.

Okafor said that the association was disturbed by the “overbearing influence” of some state governors which, he said, had impeded development at the grassroots.

He said that the delegation tabled its concerns before the president and pleaded for his urgent intervention “to halt the drift in grassroots administration”.

The ALGON president criticised what he described as the absence of elected representatives of the people at the grassroots, saying it was not healthy for the country’s democracy.

“We sought Mr President’s support and assistance toward ensuring that we have elected local councils in the country.

“This is to make sure that the local government system is strengthened in Nigeria and that it is functional, so that we can deliver on our mandate.”

Okafor commended Jonathan for tackling insurgency head on.

He said that the visit was also aimed at showing the association’s solidarity with him in the fight against terrorism.

“We came partly to appreciate his efforts, especially in stemming the insurgency in the north eastern part of the country.

“We encouraged him to do more, because we realise and appreciate the fact that the insurgency is now a global phenomenon.

“ALGON also appreciates his efforts as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and the efforts of the armed forces in ensuring that the insurgency is contained.”

Okafor also commended the Federal Government for effectively containing the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

He, however, called for adequate measures to guard against possible future outbreak of the disease in the country.

He said that Jonathan, in his response, appreciated ALGON’s concerns over the issues raised and restated government’s commitment to ensuring that the country was completely rid of Ebola.

Okafor said that the president also promised to help reposition the third tier of government for enhanced service delivery at the grassroots.