Ali Ndume, the Chief Whip of the Senate, has declared that the Supreme Court’s ruling granting autonomy to local governments is the beginning of the liberation of local governments in Nigeria.
Ndume, who hailed President Bola Tinubu for the feat, noted that the ruling is the President’s greatest achievement since assuming office in May 2023.
A Call for Immediate Action
The Senate Chief Whip called on President Tinubu to start implementing the judgment without delay. He stressed that the grassroots must quickly feel the benefits of good governance.
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According to him, the control state governors had over Local Government administration, based on a disputed section of the 1999 Constitution, has hindered local development for too long.
“This Supreme Court ruling, driven by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is his biggest accomplishment yet. It marks the start of the liberation of Local Governments in Nigeria,” Ndume said in a statement on Friday.
Empowering Local Governments
The Senator urged the President to begin the distribution of monthly allocations to Local Government Councils immediately. “The grassroots will finally feel the impact of good governance,” he emphasised.
Ndume also reflected on previous failed attempts by the National Assembly to amend the 1999 Constitution to address this issue, noting that state governors had blocked these efforts.
“Even President Muhammadu Buhari’s attempts were thwarted by the governors. But now, with this Supreme Court judgment, the issue is resolved. No more unjust deductions from local government funds,” he stated.
Ensuring Accountability
With the new autonomy, Ndume believes local government chairmen will now be held accountable for their spending.
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“People can now hold their council chairmen accountable for how they use their monthly allocations. This will lead to true accountability and proper use of funds,” Ndume said, praising President Tinubu for his courage.
This groundbreaking ruling is expected to bring transparency and development to local governments, showcasing the administration’s commitment to good governance and grassroots empowerment.
