Local Government Autonomy: Edeoga Applauds Judgement, Calls on EFCC and NFIU to Ensure Full Implementation

Hon. Barr Chijioke Edeoga, the governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election in Enugu State, has enthusiastically welcomed the landmark Supreme Court judgement granting full autonomy to local government areas across Nigeria. This significant decision, which effectively ends governors’ control over local government finances, has garnered widespread acclaim nationwide.

In a personally signed statement released on Thursday, Edeoga lauded the Supreme Court’s ruling as a decisive blow against the longstanding constitutional abuses by state governors. He highlighted that during his gubernatorial campaign, he had pledged to safeguard the autonomy and financial integrity of local government funds, recognizing their critical role in grassroots development.

“The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in its landmark judgement delivered on Thursday, July 11, 2024, unequivocally affirmed the unconstitutional practice whereby state governors withheld and misused funds meant for local government councils,” the statement read.

Edeoga pointed out that local governments, constitutionally recognized as the third tier of government closest to the people, had suffered from years of financial mismanagement and neglect under governors’ discretion. He emphasized how this misuse had hindered local development initiatives, leaving many communities underserved and disadvantaged.

“The abuse of local government funds by state governors has been a longstanding issue of impunity, with significant consequences for grassroots development,” Edeoga remarked, underscoring the detrimental effects on employment, rural infrastructure, and socioeconomic empowerment.

Drawing from his experience as a former local government chairman, Edeoga stressed the imperative of direct access to these funds for local government chairmen to facilitate efficient development projects aligned with community needs.

“I firmly believe that empowering local councils will foster equitable development across all regions, mitigating favoritism and neglect often experienced under the current system,” Edeoga asserted, reflecting on the potential for enhanced governance and transparency.

Edeoga commended President Bola Tinubu and the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for their resolute pursuit of justice in this case. He expressed optimism that the judgement would herald a new era of accountability and progress in local governance, urging strict adherence to its implementation by relevant authorities.

“The EFCC and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit must establish dedicated units to oversee the enforcement of this judgement, ensuring swift investigation and prosecution of any attempts to circumvent it,” Edeoga urged, highlighting the critical role of anti-corruption agencies in upholding accountability.

He called upon the Attorney General of the Federation to promptly issue comprehensive guidelines to facilitate seamless compliance with the Supreme Court’s directive, emphasizing the urgency of these measures in safeguarding public interest and promoting good governance.

“In tandem with these efforts, I urge the National Assembly to expedite constitutional amendments that would decentralize the conduct of local government elections, ensuring fairness and independence in the electoral process,” Edeoga concluded, advocating for sustained momentum towards holistic reform in Nigeria’s governance structure.

The statement encapsulates Edeoga’s unwavering commitment to advancing democratic principles and advocating for transparent, accountable governance at the grassroots level, resonating with progressive-minded citizens eager for transformative change in Nigeria.