Are LGAs Finally Free?

Dear Active Citizen,

We have some exciting news to share! Remember how we've been shouting from the rooftops about the need for Local Government Area (LGA) financial autonomy? Well, guess what? The Supreme Court just dropped a bombshell that's going to shake things up in a big way!

The Supreme Court Ruling: A Closer Look

The Supreme Court has indeed made a ruling regarding LGA funds, but it's crucial to understand the nuances:

1. What the Court Said: The ruling bars governors from retaining or utilising funds meant for the 774 LGAs in the country.
2. Constitutional Context: However, this ruling needs to be viewed in light of our Constitution, specifically Section 162(3) and (6) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The Constitutional Framework

"Any amount standing to the credit of the Federation Account shall be distributed among the Federal and State Governments and the Local Government Councils in each State on such terms and in such manner as may be prescribed by the National Assembly".

?Section 162(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

"Each State shall maintain a special account to be called "State Joint Local Government Account"?into which shall be paid all allocations to the Local Government Councils of the State from the Federation Account and from the Government of the State.”

?Section 162(6) of the 1999 Constitution?(as amended).

What This Means

1. State Joint Account: The Constitution mandates a State Joint Local Government Account. This means funds can't directly bypass the state government.
2. Balancing Act: The Supreme Court ruling aims to prevent misuse of LGA funds by governors, but it must be implemented within the constitutional framework.

The Real Challenge

The core issue isn't just about bypassing state governments; it's about ensuring that LGA funds are used appropriately for local development. Here's what we need to focus on:

• Transparency: Clear mechanisms for tracking funds from the Federation Account to LGAs.
• Accountability: Ensuring governors and LGA chairmen are held responsible for how these funds are used.
• Oversight: Strengthening systems to monitor how LGA funds are utilised at the local level.

Our Ongoing Advocacy

Our flagship initiative, #myLGA, is at the forefront of our efforts to improve local governance. This project aims to increase citizen participation, enhance transparency, and promote accountability at the LGA level. Through #myLGA, we're empowering citizens to actively engage with their local governments and demand better services.

1. Town Hall Meetings: We're gearing up for a series of town hall meetings across our project implementation states. These meetings are crucial for engaging directly with citizens and local leaders.
2. Office of the Citizen (OOTC) Help Desks: Our progress in establishing these desks (in Abia, Ebonyi, Ondo, Nasarawa, and Yobe States) is crucial. They will help citizens understand and engage with the financial processes of their LGAs.
3. Pushing for Reform: We'll advocate for reforms that respect the Constitution while ensuring LGAs have the resources they need for local development.

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Stay safe this week.

The EiE Nigeria Team.