The recent Supreme Court ruling granting autonomy to local governments has ignited widespread debate among party leaders, governors, and citizens across Nigeria.
This landmark decision has prompted several governors to rethink and restructure the administration of their states.
As reported by The Matrix, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed responded to the Supreme Court’s ruling by dissolving the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, recognizing the newfound autonomy for local governments across Nigeria.
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Reacting to the development, Hon. Adetunji Akinyemi, search through a statement made available to our correspondence expressed frustration over the decline in the value of local governance.
“For many years, local governments in Nigeria have been reduced to mere extensions of state governments, stifled by a system that allowed state governors to control funds meant for local development. This control led to a near-standstill in local governance, causing sectors such as primary education, healthcare, and infrastructure to suffer greatly,” Akinyemi lamented.
With the Supreme Court’s ruling, the era of state governors acting as gatekeepers for local government funds is over. Citizens now have reason to celebrate, as the funds intended for building roads, schools, and health centers in their communities will be directly accessible to the local leaders responsible for delivering these services.
Akinyemi urged local government chairmen to exercise their newfound power responsibly, emphasizing that they will be held accountable for every penny spent in their respective local governments.
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“This ruling is not just about money; it’s about power—power that is now being returned to its rightful owners: the people,” Akinyemi stated. “Local government chairmen are now truly accountable to their constituents, and this is something every citizen should be excited about. Imagine a scenario where you, the voter, know exactly who your local government chairman is, can see where your community’s money is being spent, and have the ability to demand answers when things don’t add up. This is what true democracy should look like.”
Akinyemi called on Nigerians to take the electoral process seriously as a part of their civic duties. He urged citizens to get involved and understand the individuals running their local governments. “Gone are the days when chairmen could hide behind the excuse of ‘the state government didn’t release the funds.’ The funds are now available, and so are your rights to question how they are being utilized,” he said. “This ruling is your green light to start asking tough questions: What is the condition of our roads? What about the state of our schools? Are the health centers equipped to handle emergencies? And most importantly, where is the money going?”
For local government chairmen, this ruling is a double-edged sword. While it offers greater financial autonomy, it also brings increased scrutiny. Unlike governors and the president, local government chairmen do not enjoy immunity from prosecution. “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) can now hold you accountable if funds are misused. So, proceed with caution, because both the EFCC and, more crucially, your constituents are watching closely,” Akinyemi warned.
“This is a call to all citizens: Rise up and hold your local government accountable!” he continued. “This ruling is a victory for democracy, but it will only be effective if we, the people, make it work. Start attending town hall meetings, demand transparency in local government spending, and do not hesitate to speak out. This is your money, your community, and your future at stake.”
Akinyemi concluded by emphasizing that the Supreme Court ruling is more than just a legal decision; it is an invitation for citizens to reclaim their role in governance. “It’s a call for local government chairmen to deliver on their promises and a warning that the days of unchecked power are over. Let this ruling usher in a new era of accountability, transparency, and genuine democracy at the grassroots level. The power is now in your hands—use it wisely,” he said.
