LG Autonomy: NGO Reacts To Supreme Court Judgement

Says It Will Deepen Democracy, Grassroots Development

A nongovernmental organisation championing probity and accountability at the local government level, Insight Initiative for Community and Social Development welcomes the Thursday, July 11th Supreme Court judgement mandating that the federal government to directly pay allocations due to local government councils to their (Councils’) accounts. This decision shows the commitment to uphold the constitutional autonomy of local governments, ensuring that funds meant for local development are utilised effectively and transparently.

This judgement marks a step towards the realisation of true federalism and decentralisation of power, as envisioned by the framers of our constitution. We commend the Supreme Court for its wisdom and foresight in delivering a ruling that prioritises the development and functionality of local governments, free from undue interference from the States Governors.

At Insight Initiative, the frontier of the Osun Open Local Government project, we implore the federal government to proceed with the implementation of this judgement promptly and decisively, ensuring that local governments receive their due allocations without further delay. This action will pave the way for enhanced local governance and community development across the nation.

We also note that the judgement also brings an end to the setting up of caretaker committees at the local government levels. This is the most important as the judgement conforms with the provision of Section 7 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The recent developments where Governors dissolve elected Council officials and bring in their cronies as caretaker committees has become counterproductive at the grassroots.

The judgement is a huge win for us as the OsunOpen LG takes off at the Advocacy and Media Engagement level. Our vision has always been to foster transparency in governance and deepen development at the grassroots. We believe that with direct funding, local governments will be better positioned to deliver essential services, implement grassroots projects, and respond promptly to the needs of their communities.

In light of this development, we call on the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) to play a major role in nurturing and producing quality leaders at the local government level. It is imperative that the electoral process the Commission is planning is transparent, fair, and inclusive, enabling the election of competent and visionary leaders who are committed to the progress and welfare of their constituents.

Quality leadership at the local government level is crucial for the socio-economic development of our state and country. We implore OSIEC to ensure that the upcoming local government elections are conducted with the highest standards of integrity, providing a level playing field for all candidates.

At Insight Initiative, we remain dedicated to advocating for good governance and accountability. We believe that this judgement, coupled with the election of capable local leaders, will strengthen the quality of life for the people of Osun State and beyond.

We thank the Supreme Court for its judgement and the federal government for its commitment to constitutional principles.