Local Government Caretaker Committees and Service Delivery in Anambra State: A Study of Aguata Local Government Council 2018-2024

Abstract

The impact of Local Government Caretaker Committees on service delivery in Aguata Local Government Council was investigated in this study, employing a mixed-methods research design that integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches. By combining numerical data with in-depth stakeholder insights, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these committees influence public service quality and accessibility. The qualitative component involves semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including local officials and community members, to explore their views and experiences. On the other hand, the quantitative part employed structured surveys to measure specific outcomes associated with service delivery, such as healthcare access and other related variables. With 384 samples size drawn from the study population with the aid of Cochran's formula, the stratified random sampling method was utilized in the data collection phase to ensure representation across diverse demographic groups. Utilizing the principal-agent theory as its framework for interpretation and analysis, the study employs various analytical techniques, including descriptive statistics and inferential analysis, to evaluate the data obtained from the field. The findings indicate a general perception of improvement in service delivery, but also reveal skepticism among a notable portion of the population, highlighting the need for further work to realize the committee's potential and emphasizing the importance of strict financial management to enhance accountability in infrastructure projects.