The Federal Government has established a 10-member inter-ministerial committee to implement the Supreme Court’s recent ruling granting financial autonomy to local governments. The committee, chaired by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, aims to ensure local governments receive direct funding from the Federation Account, bypassing state governments.
The Supreme Court’s July 11 verdict declared it unconstitutional for state governors to hold onto funds meant for local governments, ordering direct payment to the latter. The committee’s members include representatives from various ministries, agencies, and stakeholders, tasked with ensuring compliance and effective implementation of the ruling.
The committee’s establishment follows growing calls for local government autonomy and the Federal Government’s lawsuit against state governors over alleged misconduct of local government funds.
