PRP Tasks Tinubu on Direct Federal Allocation to Local Governments, Expresses Concerns Over Efforts to Obstruct Direct Disbursement
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The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has raised concerns over alleged lobbying efforts by state governors to obstruct the direct disbursement of federal allocations to Local Government Areas (LGAs).
In a press statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, the party reaffirmed its commitment to fiscal autonomy for local governments, as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and upheld by the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling of July 11, 2024.
“It is disheartening to observe that, despite the clear legal framework affirming the financial independence of Local Governments, some of our emperor State Governors are utilizing their influence to undermine this critical democratic process,” the statement read.
The PRP emphasized that the Supreme Court’s decision to direct federal allocations to the accounts of democratically elected local government councils was intended to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective grassroots development.
The party criticized attempts to revert to the controversial joint accounts system, describing it as a blatant abuse of local government funds. “Any attempts to divert these funds back to state governments jeopardize the very essence of local government financial autonomy and reflect a disregard for constitutional mandates,” the statement continued.
The PRP called on President Bola Tinubu to resist pressure from state governors and uphold the financial independence of local governments. “It is imperative that funds allocated for local governments are disbursed directly and without interference, allowing elected LGAs the freedom to effectively manage their resources, address the needs of their constituents, and contribute to the overall development of their communities,” the party urged.
Addressing claims by governors regarding debts incurred in the name of local governments, the PRP accused them of attempting to evade fiscal accountability. “We stand firmly with the local government authorities against any maneuver aimed at utilizing local government allocations to service debts that do not have the legitimate backing of the councils themselves nor used for their benefits,” the statement asserted.
The party also urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to expedite the opening of accounts for local governments and ensure transparency in the auditing process. “Transparency and adherence to the legal framework should take precedence over the interests of state governors,” the PRP stated.
In its concluding remarks, the PRP called on civil society, local government officials, and citizens to join the demand for full implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling. “The financial autonomy of our local governments is not just a matter of administrative convenience; it is a fundamental right of our communities that must be defended and upheld with unwavering resolve,” the statement concluded.
The Street Reporters Newspaper recalls that on July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment affirming the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas, a judgment yet to be implemented.
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