“Local Government Emancipation Judgment Takes Immediate Effect” — AGF

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has ruled in favor of direct federal allocations to local government councils (LGAs), a move hailed as a significant step towards local government autonomy. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, mandates that the federal government cease channeling funds through state governors, who have been accused of misappropriating these allocations.

Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, expressed his satisfaction with the ruling, emphasizing its immediate implementation. “The Supreme Court’s judgment has emancipated LGAs from the shackles of the past,” Fagbemi stated. “The ball is now in the court of state governors to conduct LGA elections, with the judgment specifying consequences for non-compliance.”

The Supreme Court panel, consisting of seven justices, underscored the abuse of power by state governors in handling LGA funds. They ordered that the federal government should withhold allocations to LGAs governed by unelected officials, compelling states to adhere to democratic processes.

Fagbemi, speaking after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, noted the nationwide approval of the judgment. He called it a “local government emancipation judgment,” urging local government officials to seize this opportunity to foster development within their jurisdictions.

“The judgment is clear about the actions required and the penalties for non-compliance,” Fagbemi concluded, reaffirming the Supreme Court’s directive for immediate effect.