By outdoor-nature-child.com In a recent session, the Nigerian Senate took a strong stand, urging state governments to cease any attempts to undermine the Supreme Court ruling that allows for full financial autonomy for local government councils. This resolution was prompted by a motion from Senator Tony Nwoye of the Labour Party, who represents Anambra North Senatorial District.
Senator Nwoye raised concerns that certain state governments were trying to circumvent the Supreme Court’s decision by passing counter-laws through their state assemblies. He invoked provisions of the Senate Standing Rules to emphasize the urgency of the situation. The Senate responded with a clear message, officially backing the Supreme Court’s ruling and stressing the necessity for state compliance.
The resolution stated, “All states and local governments should fully comply with the recent Supreme Court judgement regarding the distribution and use of funds allocated to local governments in Nigeria.” It also called for constitutional amendments to secure the autonomy of local governments.
Nwoye highlighted that nine other senators co-sponsored his motion, expressing alarm over reports that some governors were pressuring local councils to funnel funds into a State/Local Government Joint Account—a move that has already been deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
Following Nwoye’s presentation, the Senate engaged in a vigorous discussion. Senator Adamu Aliero raised a constitutional point, arguing for a swift conclusion to the debate since the Supreme Court’s ruling is enforceable across the nation. Senate President Godswill Akpabio echoed this sentiment, outlining the constitutional provisions that necessitate amendments to fully implement the Supreme Court’s ruling.
In light of growing tensions within the chamber, Akpabio called for an emergency closed session to address the matter, which lasted over an hour. Upon reconvening, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau announced the adoption of two significant resolutions from the closed session.
With unanimous approval secured, Akpabio emphasized that all levels of government must adhere to the recent Supreme Court ruling, particularly regarding local government accounts. He underscored the importance of directing local government funds to their respective administrations to enhance the welfare of the Nigerian populace, asserting, “The Supreme Court has mandated that money be sent directly to local governments, and we uphold this firm stance against the misuse of local government resources.”
He further affirmed the Senate’s commitment to ensuring local governments function effectively and are recognized as a legitimate tier of government. “Our administration’s legacy will include the revitalization of local governance, making certain that rural communities benefit from well-managed local government funding, along with facilitating timely elections,” he stated.
After the motion passed, Senator Nwoye spoke to the media, clarifying that the debates within the Senate were rooted in legal arguments rather than confusion. He reiterated that the Senate and its members would pursue lawful actions against any state that defies the Supreme Court ruling on local government finances.