The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has issued a stern warning against violating the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy, pledging to take decisive action against offending council officials. Fagbemi made this declaration during a conference for judiciary correspondents held on Thursday in Abuja.
According to the AGF, grassroots governance has endured significant setbacks over the years. However, he expressed optimism that the enforcement of the Supreme Court’s verdict on local government autonomy would rejuvenate the sector. He emphasized the need to restore vitality to local governments, enabling them to serve their intended purpose effectively.
Highlighting the negligence faced by people at the grassroots level, Fagbemi stressed that the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is determined to rectify past injustices and elevate the country’s standing globally. He cautioned local government officials against mismanaging funds, reminding them that they do not enjoy the immunity granted to governors.
Fagbemi stated that local government officials have a clear choice: misuse public funds and face imprisonment, or contribute meaningfully to grassroots development by investing in essential projects like roads, schools, and hospitals. He underscored the necessity of revitalizing local governments to ensure improved living conditions for citizens.
In a landmark judgment delivered in July, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the financial autonomy of local governments, putting an end to the practice of governors controlling local government funds. The ruling also directed the AGF to ensure that local government allocations are paid directly into their accounts, a move designed to strengthen autonomy and promote accountability across the country.
