The National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has voiced its profound disappointment over the persistent disregard for a Supreme Court judgment mandating the direct disbursement of funds to local government areas (LGAs). The judgment, delivered on July 11, 2024, declared the long-standing practice of state governors controlling LGA funds unconstitutional, a practice that effectively crippled local governance and hindered development at the grassroots level. Despite the clear legal directive, six months after the landmark ruling, state governors continue to intercept and control these allocations, in open defiance of the highest court in the land. This blatant disregard for the rule of law has sparked outrage and frustration within NULGE, prompting its national president, Hakeem Ambali, to call upon President Bola Tinubu to intervene decisively and enforce the court’s order without further delay.
Ambali expressed his bewilderment at the continued delay, emphasizing the clear and unambiguous nature of the Supreme Court’s judgment. He pointed out that the ruling left no room for interpretation or postponement, making the governors’ actions not only illegal but also a blatant affront to the judiciary. Despite initial optimism fueled by assurances from the President and indications that direct allocations would commence in January, the continued inaction has cast a shadow of doubt over the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and empowering local governance. Ambali underscored the importance of respecting the judiciary’s decisions, reiterating that the Supreme Court’s judgment is final and binding on all parties.
The NULGE president recounted the assurances received from President Tinubu, including a recent reaffirmation of his commitment to implementing the directive during a meeting with the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum. These assurances, coupled with the perceived urgency of the matter, led NULGE to believe that direct allocations would commence by the end of January. Ambali stressed the significance of this transition, emphasizing that direct control over their finances would empower LGAs to effectively address local needs and drive development at the grassroots level. He lamented the current system where governors act as intermediaries, often diverting funds and leaving local governments with insufficient resources to fulfill their mandates.
The actions of certain governors have further exacerbated the situation. Ambali specifically criticized Governors Charles Soludo of Anambra State and Alex Otti of Abia State for allegedly enacting laws that directly contradict the Supreme Court’s ruling. He condemned these actions as not only illegal but also an attempt to undermine the authority of the judiciary. Ambali pointed to the Attorney General’s clarification that such laws are null and void, reinforcing the supremacy of the Supreme Court’s decision. These actions, according to Ambali, demonstrate a concerning disregard for the rule of law and further impede the implementation of local government autonomy.
In anticipation of the eventual implementation of direct allocations, a technical committee has formulated key recommendations to ensure the transparency and accountability of the process. These recommendations, submitted to the presidency, include the monthly publication of LGA allocations in national newspapers, the establishment of a monitoring committee to oversee disbursements, and capacity-building conferences for councilors responsible for oversight functions. Ambali highlighted the importance of these measures, emphasizing that they would not only safeguard against potential misuse of funds but also empower local communities to hold their elected officials accountable. He also noted the operationalization of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit at the local government level, further strengthening the oversight mechanisms.
Ambali issued a stern warning to governors attempting to obstruct the implementation of local government autonomy, emphasizing that LGA officials would be held equally accountable for any financial impropriety. He contrasted the legal position of governors, who enjoy immunity from prosecution, with that of local government chairmen and officials, who are subject to the full force of the law. This distinction, according to Ambali, will serve as a deterrent against corruption and ensure that public funds are utilized judiciously. He reiterated NULGE’s commitment to ensuring that local governments are empowered to function effectively and deliver essential services to their communities.
