Abuja, July 11, 2024 – The Labour Party (LP) has commended the Supreme Court for its verdict affirming financial autonomy of local governments in the country.
Obiora Ifoh, its National Publicity Secretary, in a statement on Thursday, said the ruling had put to rest the controversy surrounding financial autonomy of local governments.
The statement reads: “We at the Labour Party (LP) welcome the Supreme Court decision granting financial autonomy to Local Government Councils in the 36 States of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory.
“This decision was long in coming, but like a saying goes, it is better late than never.
“It has put to rest the debate as to whether or not local government areas that are the closest level of government to the ordinary people deserve to enjoy some form of autonomy to address challenges facing the masses within their jurisdiction.
“We can now safely say local government areas now have greater freedom to initiate and complete projects which will reduce suffering at the grass roots.
“This autonomy comes with a huge responsibility on local government councils just as councillors now owe their constituents a duty to hold local government chairmen accountable by ensuring prudent management of their resources.” (GBN)
