Soludo Refutes Calls for Full LGA Autonomy, Advocates State Oversight

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has cautioned against granting full autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, warning that it could lead to widespread disorder rather than foster sustainable development.

Speaking at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Awka, on Tuesday, after signing the “Anambra Local Government Administration Law 2024,” recently passed by the State House of Assembly, Soludo strsses the constitutional role of state governments in overseeing local governance.

He referred to Section 7 of Nigeria’s constitution, which gives states the authority to enact laws for local government administration.

“The idea of full autonomy for the 774 local governments is unrealistic and would result in massive chaos. The existing challenges that precede the push for local government autonomy could worsen the situation and harm those who are supposed to benefit if not carefully managed,” Soludo remarked.

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He explained that the newly signed law is intended to foster stability, transparency, and collaboration between state and local governments.

“These new laws by the Anambra House of Assembly are meant to give practical effect to the Supreme Court judgment, not to undermine it.

Suppose the State House of Assembly neglects its constitutional role. In that case, the local governments will have no legal framework for managing their finances,” he said, adding that many local governments would face financial difficulties and require state assistance without proper oversight.

Soludo also highlighted the balance of power between federal and state authorities, stating, “The Federal Government controls resources, but the states control land. At the state level, substantial amounts are spent on revenue. No tier of government can operate effectively without working with others.

The three tiers of government share the common goal of serving the people. The Federal Government is not completely autonomous from the states—it’s a cooperative system to achieve shared objectives.”

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Addressing allegations that state governors misuse local government funds, Soludo dismissed the claims, attributing such accusations to a lack of public trust.

“Governors are often accused of ‘controlling’ local government funds with suggestions that these funds are mismanaged. In a society where public office is viewed as a ‘dining table’ and public trust is low, people tend to judge others based on their own perceptions,” he stated.

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