By Abasi Ita, Calabar
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state has praised the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local councils, describing it as a “welcome development” and a “big relief” to state governments.
Speaking to journalists at the Victor Attah International Airport upon his return to the state, Governor Eno said, “The Supreme Court verdict on local government autonomy remains sacrosanct, being the pronouncement of the final court in the land.”
He expressed confidence that the judgment would not negatively impact the Akwa Ibom State Government, noting that local governments have been receiving their due allocations without interference. However, he raised concerns about the effective implementation of the autonomy and the capacity of local government officials to ensure accountability and handle their financial responsibilities.
“The only challenge I envisage now, which we have to sit down and find a way around, is how the local government workers would get their renumerations and other financial entitlement seamlessly,” Governor Eno said.
He also highlighted the state government’s efforts to offset arrears of gratuities, pensions, salaries, and other entitlements to local government workers, expressing hope that local governments would take over the responsibility of prompt payment of salaries and other emoluments to teachers, health workers, and other LG workers.
*”For me, this is a welcome development because I know how much we, as a state, support the local governments. Since I assumed office, I’ve not touched any funds allocated to the local governments,”* Governor Eno emphasized.
The Governor was received at the airport by top government functionaries led by the state Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyenehi.