A foremost lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mohammed Ndarani, in an exclusive interview with Ameh Ochojila, discussed the recent Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy, highlighting its potential to revolutionize rural areas. He emphasized the need for a constitutional overhaul, citing rising corruption allegations as a call for urgent reform.
Consequences of the Supreme Court Judgment:
The Supreme Court’s ruling strengthens local government autonomy, allowing councils to function independently without state governor interference. This decision promotes true federalism and financial freedom for local councils, fostering grassroots development and democratic governance.
Recommendations for Judicial Independence:
To enhance judicial independence and combat corruption, Ndarani suggests constitutional amendments for financial autonomy, tenure security, and transparent judicial appointments.
Suggestions for Addressing Human Rights Abuses:
Ndarani proposes the establishment of oversight bodies, training programs for security personnel, and whistleblower protections to address human rights violations.
Framework for Addressing Gender-Based Violence:
To combat gender-based violence, he advocates for strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing enforcement, and raising awareness, especially in rural areas.
Strengthening Anti-Corruption Laws:
Ndarani recommends ensuring the autonomy of anti-corruption agencies, increasing transparency, and broadening laws to cover new forms of corruption.
Challenges to Protest Rights:
While Nigerian laws guarantee the right to protest, political sensitivity, regulatory ambiguity, and security concerns pose challenges to this fundamental right.
[ad_2]
Source link
