In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy has significantly reduced the powers of state governors, a move warmly received by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF). AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman, Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, expressed his approval of the decision, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on state governance.
Speaking with newsmen on Friday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja, AbdulRahman highlighted the relief felt by governors across the nation. “We are comfortable with the Supreme Court judgment that granted financial autonomy to local governments,” he stated.
He further elaborated on the implications of the ruling, noting that it has unburdened state governors by devolving power to the third tier of government. “We welcome the ruling of the Supreme Court. Compliance is given, and our Attorney Generals have applied for the enrollment order, which we will study carefully. By and large, governors are happy with the devolution of power concerning local government autonomy. It relieves the burden on governors,” he explained.
AbdulRahman also addressed misconceptions about state expenditures on local governments. “Our people don’t realize how much states spend in bailing out local governments, and that’s the issue here,” he said.
The NGF has requested the enrollment of the judgment and plans to review it comprehensively at a meeting scheduled for next Wednesday. “We need to examine the court order fully before deciding on the way forward,” he added.
Specifically for Kwara State, AbdulRahman assured that the judgment would not have a negative impact as the state government has always respected local council funds. “It’s not going to affect us. We’ve never tampered with local government funds. Local governments need to manage themselves, especially with the upcoming minimum wage. They must ensure salaries are paid and that traditional rulers receive their 5% share,” he stated.
Accompanying AbdulRahman was Senator Hope Uzodinma, the Governor of Imo State, who also commented on their visit to the State House. “We met with the President on various issues, including the minimum wage, the Supreme Court ruling, and other national matters affecting the states,” Uzodinma revealed.
This Supreme Court decision marks a pivotal shift in the balance of power, promising greater financial independence for local governments and alleviating the fiscal pressures on state governors. As the NGF prepares to navigate this new landscape, the focus will be on effective management and compliance with the newly affirmed autonomy.
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