Governors Must Stop Meddling in LGA Financial Affairs – PRP

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has condemned efforts by state governors to block the direct disbursement of federal allocations to local government authorities (LGAs).  

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, on Tuesday, the party reaffirmed its support for fiscal autonomy as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and reinforced by the Supreme Court’s ruling of July 11, 2024.

The PRP accused some state governors of attempting to undermine the legal framework designed to ensure financial independence for local governments.

“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 obstruct this critical democratic process,” the party stated.

The Supreme Court ruling mandates that federal allocations be paid directly into the accounts of democratically elected local government councils, aiming to improve transparency, accountability, and the effective use of funds at the grassroots level.

“The Supreme Court’s decision to mandate that federal allocations be directed to the accounts of democratically elected local government councils was aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and the effective use of funds at the grassroots level,” the PRP said.

The party argued that diverting these funds to state governments would “jeopardize the very essence of local government financial autonomy” and violate constitutional provisions.

“The abuse of local government funds by state governments through the much-abused joint accounts is detrimental to grassroots governance,” the party added.

The PRP urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to resist pressure from governors seeking control over local government finances, stating that their motives “appear more about consolidating power than fostering grassroots development.”

The party emphasized that local governments should have full control over their finances to “address the needs of their constituents” and contribute to national development.

Responding to claims by governors about debts allegedly incurred on behalf of local governments, the PRP warned against using local government allocations to settle debts that lack proper authorization.

“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 read.

The PRP further stated, “The financial autonomy of local governments is not merely a legal requirement; it is a necessary pathway to empowerment and decentralization, allowing them to fulfill their constitutional roles effectively.”

The party also urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to facilitate the opening of local government accounts and expedite the auditing process necessary for fund disbursement.

“Transparency and adherence to the legal framework should take precedence over the interests of state governors,” the statement read.

The PRP called on civil society, local government officials, and citizens to support the implementation of the Supreme Court ruling and defend local government autonomy.

“Let us ensure that the voices of the people at the grassroots are heard, respected, and empowered.”

“The financial autonomy of our local governments is not just a matter of administrative convenience; it is a fundamental right of our communities,” the party emphasized.

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