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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a landmark ruling on Thursday, July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court of Nigeria affirmed the right of local government councils to receive their monthly allocations directly from the federation account, effectively ending the proxy system where state governments received these federal allocations on behalf of local government councils. This historic decision, hailed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), represents a significant step towards enhancing financial autonomy and restructuring Nigeria's federal system.
The National Publicity Secretary of APC, Felix Morka in a press statement released today, praised the Supreme Court’s decision, highlighting its importance in recognizing local government councils as a constitutionally established third tier of government.
The ruling, delivered by a seven-man panel led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, also prohibits state governors from arbitrarily dissolving democratically-elected local government councils and replacing them with caretaker committees.
“This decision signifies a historic moment in the consolidation of democratic federalism in our country,” the statement read. “It gives practical expression to constitutional recognition of local government councils as the third tier of government. It constitutes the single most significant stride towards restructuring Nigeria since the country’s return to civilian democratic rule in 1999.”
The APC commended the Supreme Court for its definitive stance on the matter, emphasizing that the clarity provided by the ruling will foster further reforms aimed at enhancing the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of local government administration.
Additionally, the APC lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his vision and commitment to deepening democracy and strengthening local government councils. The party expressed optimism that this decision will transform local governments into strongholds for development and improve service delivery to grassroots populations.
“This epochal decision is a testament to the Supreme Court’s courage and commitment to justice. We believe it will spur further reforms and enhance the quality of governance at the local level,” the statement concluded.
