The African Network for Anti-Corruption (ANA) has cautioned both federal and state governments against manipulating the Supreme Court’s judgement granting financial autonomy to the nation’s 774 local governments.
ANA further warned against entertaining the presence of caretaker chairmen in 20 states that continue to operate illegally.
Muhammad Musbahu Basirika, the convener of the anti-corruption NGO, addressed reporters at the Kano Press Center on Friday.
He identified Jigawa, Rivers, Anambra, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Imo, Bauchi, Plateau, Enugu, Katsina, Yobe, Kwara, Abia, Cross River, Benue, Ondo, Osun, Delta and Akwa Ibom as states with caretaker arrangements, cautioning them that they risk losing their upcoming monthly allocations.
Basirika also cautioned against state governors appointing loyalists as local government council chairpersons, warning that such actions could undermine the spirit of the judgement.
He stated, “We will closely monitor to ensure this autonomy is not compromised.”
Expressing satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s decision, ANA called on the Federal Government to initiate legal actions to transfer the responsibility of conducting local government elections to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Basirika emphasised the need for constitutional amendments to ensure credibility, fairness, and transparency in electoral processes.
Basirika expressed concern over the long-standing over-reliance of local governments on state governments, which has led to inefficiency, mismanagement, and corruption.
He praised the Supreme Court’s ruling for granting financial autonomy to local governments, describing it as a significant victory for Nigeria and a major blow against poor governance and associated vices.
“This judgement empowers local government councils to control their finances, make independent decisions, and effectively serve the people,” Basirika noted.
“With this autonomy, local governments can improve healthcare, education, infrastructure, create jobs, and stimulate local economies.
“We truly commend the Supreme Court for this judgement, which is courageous and historic, we also salute the media, chaos and other stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring autonomy.”
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