By Smart Emmanuel
The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment that grants financial autonomy to the country’s 774 Local Government Councils. This historic decision is a significant step towards decentralizing power and enhancing governance at the grassroots level.
The Senate’s stance was made clear during a plenary session held on October 9, 2024. The session saw a unanimous resolution to collaborate with the House of Representatives in amending key provisions of the 1999 Constitution to ensure the effective implementation of the ruling. This move is expected to end the era of state government control over local government finances.
The call for urgent action came from Senator Tony Nwoye (LP – Anambra North), who raised concerns about some state governments’ attempts to undermine the Supreme Court’s judgment. “Certain state governors are trying to divert funds meant for local governments into state joint accounts, which is a clear violation of the Supreme Court’s ruling,” said Nwoye.
The Supreme Court’s judgment, delivered on August 11, 2024, mandates that funds allocated to local governments from the Federation Account be disbursed directly to their respective councils, bypassing state governments. This decision aims to ensure that local governments can operate independently and provide essential services to their communities.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC – Kano North), who seconded the motion, expressed the Senate’s determination to protect the autonomy of local governments. “We must uphold the Supreme Court’s judgment and ensure that local governments receive their rightful funds. This is a crucial step towards strengthening our democracy and improving governance at the grassroots level,” said Jibrin.
Supporting the motion, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP – Bauchi Central) emphasized the need for strict compliance with the ruling. “The era of state governments controlling local government finances must come to an end. We must ensure that funds are disbursed directly to local councils as intended by the Supreme Court,” Ningi stated.
Senator Tahir Monguno (APC – Borno North) also voiced his support for the motion, highlighting the positive impact of financial autonomy on local development. “With financial independence, local governments will be better equipped to address the needs of their communities and drive development at the grassroots level,” Monguno said.
The Senate’s commitment to local government autonomy is seen as a significant step towards decentralizing power and improving governance. The Upper Chamber has vowed to carry out the necessary constitutional amendments to enshrine the financial independence of local governments.
Civil society organizations and advocates for local government autonomy have praised the Senate’s decision. “This is a victory for democracy and good governance. Financial autonomy will empower local governments to be more accountable and responsive to the needs of their constituents,” said Chika Ogbuagu, Executive Director of the Centre for Grassroots Development.
However, some state governments have expressed reservations about the ruling, citing concerns over fiscal management and accountability. In response, the Senate has urged all three tiers of government to work together to implement the Supreme Court’s judgment effectively.
“We call on state governments to comply with the ruling and ensure that funds are disbursed directly to local councils. This is a collective responsibility, and we must all work together to strengthen our democracy,” said Senator Nwoye.
The Senate’s resolution marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest for effective decentralization and improved governance. As the nation moves towards implementing financial autonomy for local governments, stakeholders are hopeful that this will lead to greater transparency, accountability, and development at the grassroots level.
The journey towards local government autonomy has been long and challenging, but the Senate’s commitment to this cause is a testament to its dedication to improving governance and empowering communities. As the constitutional amendments progress, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how this historic decision unfolds and impacts their lives at the local level.
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