The National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has expressed disappointment over the six-month delay in enforcing financial autonomy for Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, despite a Supreme Court ruling mandating direct fund disbursement.
In a landmark judgment on July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court declared the practice of state governors controlling local government funds unconstitutional and ordered that allocations be paid directly to local government accounts. However, state governors have continued to control these funds, defying the court’s directive.
NULGE’s National President, Hakeem Ambali, voiced the union’s concerns during an interview on Thursday, urging President Bola Tinubu to enforce the ruling without further delay.
“We are surprised that this judgment has not been implemented. Although we received assurances during the Yuletide that the process would begin in January, it is disheartening that six months later, we are still discussing this issue,” Ambali said.
Assurances from the Presidency
Ambali noted that recent developments suggest progress, with the President reiterating his commitment to enforcing direct allocations.
“The Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum recently met with Mr. President, who reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the directive. We expect that by the end of January, local governments will receive their allocations directly. The court’s judgment is final, and further delays are unacceptable,” he added.
Criticism of Non-Compliant Governors
Ambali criticised some governors, including Anambra State’s Prof. Charles Soludo and Abia State’s Dr. Alex Otti, for allegedly passing laws that contradict the Supreme Court ruling.
“Such laws are null and void because they cannot override the Supreme Court’s decision. The Attorney General has clarified that these actions are illegal and unenforceable,” Ambali said.
Recommendations for Transparency and Accountability
To ensure the integrity of the process, Ambali revealed that a technical committee has submitted recommendations to the presidency, including:
Monthly publication of local government allocations in national newspapers.
Establishing a monitoring committee to track fund disbursements.
Organising capacity-building programs for councilors overseeing local government operations.
He emphasised that direct allocations would empower local governments to manage their finances effectively, marking a significant shift from the current system.
Warning Against Interference
Ambali warned governors against attempts to undermine local government autonomy, stating that LGA officials would also be held accountable for any mismanagement.
“Unlike governors, local government chairmen and officials have no immunity. Anyone who violates the law will face the consequences. Governors trying to derail this process will not succeed,” he stressed.
