Supreme Court’s Verdict on LG Autonomy, a Relief for Governors – NGF

The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has welcomed the recent Supreme Court ruling that grants autonomy to local government areas, a decision described as a significant relief for state governors.

Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman, expressed the forum’s support for the verdict, noting the alleviation it provides from the burdens traditionally shouldered by governors. AbdulRahman, joined by the All Progressives Congress Governors Forum Chairman Hope Uzodimma and Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum Chairman Dr. Bala Mohammed, made these remarks following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The ruling guarantees compliance, with AbdulRahman noting, “Our Attorney General has applied for the enrollment order, which we’ll study carefully.” He emphasized the general approval among governors for the devolution of power to local governments, highlighting the financial strains states endure in supporting local governments.

AbdulRahman clarified that his administration in Kwara State has always maintained the integrity of local government funds. He urged local governments to manage their affairs effectively, especially concerning the forthcoming minimum wage, to ensure salaries and traditional rulers’ stipends are duly paid.

The forum plans to convene next Wednesday to address issues in states where local government elections are pending.

This ruling follows the Supreme Court’s declaration that it is unconstitutional for state governors to withhold funds allocated to local government administrations. Delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, the judgment affirmed that the 774 local government councils in Nigeria should independently manage their funds, emphasizing the tripartite structure of federal, state, and local government powers.

The court also stated that state governments have no authority to appoint caretaker committees, mandating democratically elected local governments to manage their affairs and receive funds directly.

This lawsuit, filed by Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) on behalf of the Federal Government, aimed to secure full autonomy and direct funding for all local government councils in the country.