In a bold move to strengthen local governance and ensure adherence to constitutional provisions, the Federal Government, led by President Tinubu, has filed a lawsuit against the governors of all 36 states at the Supreme Court. The legal action alleges misconduct in the administration of Local Government Areas (LGAs) and seeks several significant reforms.
Central to the Federal Government's case is the demand for full autonomy for LGAs, recognizing them as the third tier of government. This step is aimed at enhancing the efficiency, independence, and democratic functioning of local administrations across the country. President Tinubu's administration believes that granting LGAs complete autonomy is crucial for grassroots development and better governance.
Another major aspect of the lawsuit is the Federal Government's call for an order preventing state governors from unilaterally dissolving democratically elected local government leaders. The FG argues that such actions undermine the democratic process and the constitutional rights of local governments to govern independently. By prohibiting arbitrary dissolutions, the FG aims to protect the integrity of local elections and ensure that elected officials can serve their full terms without undue interference.
The Federal Government is also seeking a directive that mandates the direct allocation of funds to LGAs from the Federation Account. This request is in line with constitutional provisions and is intended to ensure that local governments have the financial resources necessary to perform their duties effectively. The current practice, where state governments often control and sometimes misappropriate these funds, has been identified as a major obstacle to local development and autonomy.
In addition to these demands, the FG is requesting the Supreme Court to issue an order stopping governors from appointing caretaker committees to manage local governments. These committees, often seen as tools for political control, are viewed as contrary to the constitutionally guaranteed democratic system. The FG contends that only democratically elected officials should run local governments, ensuring accountability and transparency.
The lawsuit further seeks an injunction to restrain governors and their agents from receiving or using funds allocated to LGAs when there is no elected local government in place. This measure is aimed at preventing the misuse of funds meant for local development and ensuring that resources are utilized for their intended purposes.
The governors have been sued through their respective Attorneys General, and the Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for May 30. This case represents a significant effort by President Tinubu to uphold the rule of law, promote democratic governance, and enhance the efficiency of local governments in Nigeria. The outcome of this legal action could have far-reaching implications for the future of local governance and federal-state relations in the country.
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