Retired Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai, the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), praised the Supreme Court’s decision that grants financial independence to the 774 local governments in Nigeria. He expressed his admiration for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that it is making a positive impact on democracy and benefiting ordinary citizens.
In his official statement, Buratai, who also served as the Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, described the Supreme Court’s ruling as transformative and a significant change that will improve the financial stability of local governments across the country. He lauded the federal government for taking the bold step to bring the case before the Supreme Court and commended the judges for their fair and just decision.
Buratai highlighted the importance of this ruling, calling it a major victory for the autonomy of local governments. He emphasized that the decision sets a strong precedent for future cases related to local government autonomy and financial independence. He pointed out that with this newfound financial control, local governments will be better equipped to provide services directly to their communities without interference from state governors.
Furthermore, Buratai noted that this ruling would have a positive impact on grassroots development and security. He reiterated that the Supreme Court’s decision is a crucial step toward empowering local governments and ensuring they can function independently and efficiently.
The Supreme Court’s judgement declared that it is unconstitutional for state governors to withhold funds meant for local government administrations. Delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim and a seven-member panel, the court ruled that the 774 local government councils in Nigeria should manage their funds autonomously.
The court emphasized that government power is divided into three levels: federal, state, and local. It also stated that only a democratically elected government can be recognized as a legitimate local government council, and state governments do not have the authority to appoint caretaker committees for local governments.
This landmark ruling by the Supreme Court is seen as a major step forward in strengthening the autonomy and financial independence of local governments in Nigeria.
