LGA Financial Autonomy: CCNE Hails Supreme Court Judgment
By Matthew Eloyi
The Concerned Citizens of North East (CCNE), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability, has commended the Supreme Court’s ruling that mandates the immediate release of funds allocated to local government areas (LGAs)
In a press statement signed by its Secretary General, Babangida Inuwa Muhammad and made available to newsmen in Gombe on Thursday, CCNE praised the judgement as a significant step toward ensuring that LGAs receive the necessary financial resources for development and governance.
“This landmark decision ensures that the LGAs receive the financial resources necessary for development and governance, reinforcing the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance,” said Muhammad.
The Supreme Court’s ruling addresses the longstanding issue of fund misallocation and diversion, which has significantly hampered development efforts at the grassroots level.
According to CCNE, “By upholding the constitutional provision that guarantees direct allocation of funds to LGAs, the court has taken a decisive step towards empowering local authorities and fostering sustainable development in the region.”
CCNE described the judgement as a monumental victory for grassroots communities, highlighting its significance in promoting decentralisation and local governance, which are essential for addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities.
“We urge the relevant authorities to comply with the court’s ruling promptly and ensure that the funds are used judiciously for the benefit of the people,” the statement added.
The group believes that this judgement will enhance the capacity of LGAs to deliver essential services, improve infrastructure, and drive socio-economic development.
It called on local government officials to utilise these funds transparently and efficiently, prioritising projects that will have a direct and positive impact on residents’ lives.
“We will continue to advocate for the rights and welfare of the people in our region, and we will monitor the implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgement and work collaboratively with stakeholders to promote accountability and good governance at all levels in the region,” the statement concluded.
CCNE expressed its commitment to ensuring that the rights and welfare of the people are protected and that local authorities are empowered to drive sustainable development.
