ABUJA – The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday praised the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local governments, calling it a historic step in strengthening democratic federalism in Nigeria.
This decision resolves a longstanding issue between federal and state governments over local governments’ autonomy. The Supreme Court ruling allows local government councils to receive their monthly allocations directly from the federation account, bypassing state governments.
In a statement, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka lauded the ruling for ending the practice of state governments receiving federal allocations on behalf of local councils. “This decision signifies a historic moment in the consolidation of democratic federalism in our country,” Morka said. “It gives practical expression to constitutional recognition of local government councils as the third tier of government.”
The ruling, delivered by a seven-man panel led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, also affirmed that state governors do not have the authority to dissolve elected local governments and replace them with caretaker committees.
APC commended the Supreme Court for its clarity and courage in addressing this important national issue. The party believes the decision will promote further reforms for effectiveness, transparency, and accountability in local government administration.
The APC also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to deepen democracy and enhance the role of local government councils in development and service delivery at the grassroots level.
