By Karen James
On Thursday, July 11, 2024, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling affirming the financial autonomy of Nigeria’s 774 local government councils, a judgement that has been widely lauded as a step forward for grassroots development. The ruling grants local councils the direct reception of federal allocation funds, reinforcing their legitimacy and promoting rapid development across Nigeria. As the third tier of government, local councils were created to bring governance closer to the people, with the ultimate goal of addressing the needs of the grassroots. Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State was the first to commend the Supreme Court’s verdict, hailing it as a crucial step towards promoting accountability and transparency.
Governor Soludo’s endorsement of the judgement was followed by actions in line with his promise to deliver a credible local government election. Under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, the Anambra State House of Assembly exhibited legislative commitment by enacting and amending the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission’s Law, which guaranteed the peaceful local government elections on September 28, 2024. The Anambra State Local Government Administration Law, passed shortly thereafter, aims to streamline the relationship between the state and local governments while ensuring that local councils maintain autonomy over their finances, contrary to speculation about interference with local government funds.
The newly enacted Anambra State Local Government Administration Law clearly defines the roles of local government chairmen and councilors, especially in sectors such as primary healthcare, education, and pensions. With 26 out of 30 lawmakers from various political parties participating in its passage, the law is seen as a critical framework for enhancing local governance and improving the well-being of rural communities. The law’s clarity and focus on collaboration between the state and local governments further solidifies its intention to foster development and transparency at the grassroots level, ensuring that governance truly benefits the people.
