STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCING FINANACIAL ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SYSTEM IN NIGERIA.

The purpose of this research is to study the impact of effective internal control system in the local government in Nigeria as a process of achieving financial accountability. Also to show what happens when such a system is found ineffective. It equally aimed at providing possible solutions based on the findings and making of some recommendations when implemented will reduce some of the problems encountered in the process of maintaining financial prudence and accountability. The sources of data used in this research are questionnaire responses, seminar handouts and personal observations. The analysis of data comprised of the use of percentage and chi-square (x2) technique. This technique was apply appropriately with three degrees of freedom and at 0.05 level of significance. The internal control system was seen to be more effective at the finance department. Segreanse of duties was not so adequate because of interruption from the top management not allowing proper separation of functions. The analysis of the questionnaire schedule revealed that most local government has seen the need for effective internal control system. They equally showed satisfactions from the results so far and have realized the problems inherent where there is ineffective internal control system. It was also observed that internal control system, which is effective, enhances early detection of mistakes, deliberate misappropriation and equally checks collisions, fraud or embezzlement of funds. Effective internal control system should be emphasized in all sectors of our economic. This is because it tares care of proper authorization, reliability of financial records and the maintenance of financial accountability. The internal audit department should also be made to be effective in it’s functions.