The United Global Resolve for Peace (UGRFP) has urged the National Assembly to take immediate action to enshrine the Supreme Court’s judgement that granted autonomy to the 774 local government areas in Nigeria into the constitution.
Describing the ruling as a pivotal moment in strengthening the autonomy of Nigeria’s LGAs, the organisation said legislative measures must be taken to ensure that the autonomy of local governments is protected and that the principles upheld by the Supreme Court are given finality and permanence.
In a statement, the Chairman of URGP, Shalom Olaseni, observed that the apex Court’s decision to channel funds directly from the Federation Account to local governments, bypassing the controversial and often mismanaged joint accounts, represents a monumental step towards fiscal independence and operational efficiency at the local government level.
He said that for too long, local governments have been stifled by governors who seize federal allocations, releasing funds only sparingly and perpetuating a system of financial strangulation that has crippled the development and functionality of our LGAs.
He said, “The UGRFP has long championed the cause of local government autonomy. Our advocacy has included numerous commentaries, advisories, and campaigns, all aimed at highlighting the urgent need for fiscal and administrative independence for local governments.
“Today’s Supreme Court judgement validates our position and reinforces our belief that a truly autonomous local government system is essential for the health and vibrancy of our democracy. We commend the Supreme Court for its unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution and promoting democratic governance at all levels.
“This ruling is a testament to the judiciary’s role as a guardian of constitutional integrity and a bulwark against the subversion of democratic principles. Furthermore, we call upon the National Assembly to take immediate action to enshrine this landmark decision into the constitution.
“Legislative measures must be taken to ensure that the autonomy of local governments is protected and that the principles upheld by the Supreme Court are given finality and permanence. This will prevent any future attempts to undermine the autonomy and democratic governance of our local government areas”.
Furthermore, Olaseni argued that with fiscal autonomy, local governments can now access the resources necessary to deliver essential services, promote local development, and respond to the needs of their communities without undue interference
“We urge local governments to seize this opportunity to rise to their responsibilities. It is timely for LGAs to shun excuses, embrace accountability, and deliver on their mandate to serve the people. The return of politics to the grassroots heralds a new era of participatory democracy, where citizens can directly engage with and influence their local leaders and governance structures.
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