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NLC Applauds Court’s Ruling On Local Government Financial Autonomy

Published

6 months ago

Jul 11, 2024.

NLC President Joe Ajaero praises the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local governments, calling it a significant restoration of democratic hope.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has praised the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local government areas.

In a statement issued on Thursday, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the verdict as a significant restoration of hope for the nation’s democratic processes.

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Earlier reports from this online media platform highlighted that in its principal ruling, Justice Emmanuel Agim of the Supreme Court directed the Federal Government to commence immediate and direct disbursements of funds to local governments, ensuring these funds are deposited exclusively into their accounts.

The Supreme Court also criticized the longstanding practice of state governments denying financial autonomy to local governments for several decades.

Commenting on the court’s judgment, Ajaero said: “This epochal pronouncement on Thursday, July 11, 2024, directing that financial allocations be made directly to Local Governments and divesting state governments of the power to remove local government executives is both courageous and salubrious. The Supreme Court, through this landmark judgment, has not only restored our democracy but also possibly renewed hope in it.

“For years, we have watched with dismay and discontent the relentless erosion of local government powers and have embarked on a series of national protests as workers.”

Ajaero also extended appreciation to the 9th National Assembly, President Bola Tinubu, and the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari for their contributions towards resolving this issue.

Local Government Autonomy

The NLC president added: “We also note the effort made by the Buhari Administration to prise off the strangle-hold of governors on local governments. We must also mention the commendable role on this matter by the 9th Assembly.

“This statement will not be complete without paying tribute to the Tinubu government for its presence of mind to institute this action at the Supreme Court. We specifically commend the President and the Attorney General of the Federation.”

Ajaero, on the other hand, seeks the enforcement of the Supreme Court’s ruling and has expressed concerns regarding the behaviour of state electoral commissions during local government elections.

“Should SIECS be allowed to conduct ‘elections’ or should NEC take over (even as they are over-burdened and are not exactly the best example)? Should there be a regulatory agency or commission with oversight over SIECs? We will find the devil in the details through a stakeholder conversation,” Ajaero said.

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