The Edo Forum of Patriots Inc. (EFP) has voiced strong disagreement with the recent criticism by the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, concerning the Supreme Court’s decision on Local Government autonomy.
The Supreme Court ruling, widely celebrated across Nigeria, aims to ensure financial autonomy and reduce the influence of State Governors over Local Government Councils.
EFP expressed regret over Afenifere’s harsh reaction to the judgement, which many Nigerians have lauded for its potential to enhance governance at the grassroots level.
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The forum emphasized the importance of the Supreme Court’s decision in addressing longstanding issues of mismanagement and corruption within Local Government Councils, often attributed to the excessive control exerted by State Governors.
Highlighting the positive reception of the ruling, EFP pointed out that the Supreme Court’s decision aligns with the broader public sentiment across Nigeria, including the South West States, which are home to Afenifere.
Despite Afenifere acknowledging the damage inflicted on Local Governments by State Governors, EFP noted that the group failed to propose lasting solutions.
The forum praised the Supreme Court’s ruling for ensuring financial autonomy for Local Governments by rendering the Joint Account system, established under Section 169 subsection 6 of the amended 1999 Constitution, ineffective.
This change is expected to enhance accountability and transparency in Local Government administration, with financial decisions now being scrutinized at the local level rather than by State Governors.
Additionally, the ruling has abolished the practice of State Governors appointing Caretaker Committees in place of elected officials in Local Government Councils.
EFP commended this move, stating that any State without elected Local Government officials would now be denied financial resources, promoting the election of accountable representatives.
EFP also called on the president to further reduce state influence over local government elections by transferring the responsibility for conducting these elections from state independent electoral commissions to the independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This change, they argue, would ensure fairer elections and reduce undue loyalty to State Governors.
In conclusion, EFP leader Rt. Hon. Bright Omokhodion underscored the necessity of adapting federalism to better serve Nigeria’s needs.
He asserted that the Supreme Court’s ruling represents a significant shift towards reducing corruption and fostering development at the Local Government level, which is crucial for improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
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