• James Ibori calls judgment an assault on true federalism
• SERAP gives governors ultimatum to return LG funds
• Ex-deputy gov says ruling doesn’t ensure LG autonomy
• Soludo emphasizes need for money to serve people at all levels
The recent Supreme Court ruling aimed at ensuring financial autonomy for local governments from state governors may not fully liberate the local administrations, leaving doubts among stakeholders. The judgment declared the withholding of funds by state governors for local government administration as unconstitutional. It followed a suit filed by the Attorney General of the Federation to grant full autonomy to local governments as the third tier of government.
The Court criticized the exploitation of state joint accounts by governors, emphasizing that local governments should independently manage their funds without interference. The decision mandates direct allocation of funds to local governments to prevent misappropriation by states. Despite mixed reactions, the ruling is seen as a significant step towards strengthening local governance and democracy in the country.
Leading figures like James Ibori and Charles Soludo have shared differing perspectives on the judgment, igniting debates on federalism, financial independence, and governance practices at the grassroots level.