The Supreme Court has delivered a landmark judgment in the case brought by the Federal Government against the 36 state governors regarding local government autonomy
The court ruled in favor of the Federal Government, granting full autonomy and direct funding to the 774 local governments.
The court declared that it is unconstitutional for governors to withhold funds meant for local governments, emphasizing that local governments should manage their own funds.
This ruling is a significant victory for local government autonomy and financial independence.
The Federal Government had accused the governors of gross misconduct and abuse of power, seeking a declaration that funds should be paid directly to local governments rather than through state governments.
The court’s judgment is final and binding, with the Attorney General of the Federation having the right to institute the suit and protect the constitution.
This ruling grants financial autonomy to local governments, allowing them to receive their allocations directly from the Federation Account, and paves the way for greater decentralization and grassroots development
