KANO: LGSG Lauds FHC Ruling, Urges Governors to Empower LGAs for National Security, Economic Devt
Kano, Nigeria – Buoyed by a recent Federal High Court ruling, the Local Government Summit Group (LGSG) has commended the judgment of the Federal High Court and appealed to the 36 State governors to grant local governments greater financial and political autonomy.
The statement, signed by the Director General of the Group, Tijani Strong Muhammed, asserted that the economic disempowerment of local governments, often exacerbated by joint accounts controlled by state governments, contributes significantly to insecurity in the country.
The LGSG’s elation stems from a court order restraining the Kano State Government from utilizing funds belonging to its 44 Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the construction of two major flyover bridges and interchanges. The court deemed the state’s plan, which obligated LGAs to contribute 70% of the project budget, unfair and detrimental to already neglected rural areas lacking basic infrastructure.
“This judgment is a significant victory for local governance and the well-being of rural communities,” declared the LGSG spokesperson. “It highlights the inherent injustice of siphoning off resources from financially struggling LGAs for projects that prioritize urban centers.”
Strong emphasized the detrimental impact of such practices on national security. “When local governments lack the resources to address basic needs like education, healthcare, and job creation: frustration and vulnerability fester, creating fertile ground for insecurity,” the statement states. “Empowering LGAs financially is not just about equitable development; it’s about building stronger, more resilient communities that can resist the pull of instability.”
The LGSG urges governors to take a pro-active approach, moving beyond joint accounts and implementing mechanisms that ensure genuine financial autonomy for local governments. This, they believe, will pave the way for inclusive development and improved national security.
“The Kano court ruling sets a crucial precedent,” the statement concludes. “We call upon all governors to learn from it and embrace policies that empower LGAs. Let local governments breathe, and watch insecurity wither on the vine.”
The LGSG’s statement is likely to ignite further debate on the controversial issue of financial autonomy for local governments in Nigeria. With national security concerns rising, their call for equitable development and empowered communities could find strong resonance across the country.