The Initiative for Research, Innovation, and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and The Electoral Hub has commended the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court that affirmed the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local governments.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Initiative for Research, Innovation, and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and The Electoral Hub has commended the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court that affirmed the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local governments.
The Director, IRIAD and The Electoral Hub, Princess Hamman-Obels made the assertion in a statement expressed optimism that the recent supreme court judgment would contribute to better service delivery that would allow the local government to deliver the dividends of democracy to the rural dwellers.
Hamman-Obels opined that the development would bridge the development gap between the urban and rural areas.
She said, “The Initiative for Research, Innovation, and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and THE ELECTORAL HUB applauds the landmark judgment of the Supreme Court affirming the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local governments. This historic ruling is a significant milestone in strengthening grassroots democracy, good governance, and development in the country.
“The suit brought by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN to secure the independence of local governments was upheld by a seven-member panel of the apex court in a unanimous decision. Local governments will now directly receive their allocations from the Accountant-General of the Federation, bypassing state governments, according to the court ruling.
“The new setup would enable local governments to independently make decisions, take actions, and handle their finances without requiring consent from state governments. They are now able to prioritize projects and programs that directly help their communities, fostering local development and transparency. We anticipate that this decision will significantly change the role of local government administration in Nigeria, reducing political influence and urbanization.
“The decision also upholds the constitutional provisions for democratic elections of local government leadership. IRIAD-THE ELECTORAL HUB urges state governments to uphold the integrity of the constitution and refrain from arbitrarily dismissing elected local government officials.”
She added,”IRIAD-THE ELECTORAL HUB believes that the recent Supreme Court ruling will contribute to better service provision, allowing local governments to prioritize essential services such as healthcare, education, sanitation, and infrastructure development for their communities without interference from state governments.
“This change is expected to reduce the development gap between urban and rural areas as local governments can now hopefully allocate resources according to the specific needs of their communities.
“We urge all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the media, and the public, to support the implementation of this ruling for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“Together, we can work towards creating a more prosperous and fairer Nigeria where every citizen has access to quality public services and opportunities for development.”
Hamman-Obels further stated that on the way forward to ensure the successful implementation of thi judgment, IRIAD recommends the following:
“Capacity Building for Local Government Officials: Local government officials should receive training and support from federal and state governments to improve their expertise in financial management, project planning, and service delivery.
“Transparency and Accountability Mechanisms: Local governments should establish strong mechanisms for transparency and accountability, such as frequent public disclosure, social audits, and the development of anti-corruption strategies, as well as the provision of services.
“Collaboration with Civil Society Organizations: Local governments should collaborate with civil society organizations in order to encourage citizen involvement, oversee the execution of projects, and guarantee that resources are utilized for the well-being of the populace.”
The Human Rights Activist also mentioned monitoring and evaluation as part of the recommendations, adding that the progress and impact of local government autonomy should be tracked by the federal government through the establishment of a strong monitoring and evaluation framework.
“IRIAD remains committed to supporting the implementation of this landmark judgment and working with all stakeholders to promote good governance, development, and the wellbeing of all Nigerians,” she stated.
The Human Rights Activist also mentioned monitoring and evaluation as part of the recommendations, adding that the progress and impact of local government autonomy should be tracked by the federal government through the establishment of a strong monitoring and evaluation framework.
“IRIAD remains committed to supporting the implementation of this landmark judgment and working with all stakeholders to promote good governance, development, and the wellbeing of all Nigerians,” she stated.
