Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) don dey call on all state governors for Nigeria to fully comply with the Supreme Court judgment on Local Government autonomy. Dem make dis call during a press briefing in Abuja, where dem express grave concern over the actions of some governors wey dey challenge the Supreme Court judgment.
Comrade Rafisanjani, the spokesman for the Coalition of CSOs, talk say the actions of some state governors dey threaten the fight against corruption and the autonomy of local governments. He say dis actions represent a blatant disregard for the rule of law and an attempt to undermine the progress Nigeria don make in establishing institutions that hold public officials accountable.
The CSOs demand say all state governors must fully comply with the Supreme Court judgment and immediately end all forms of interference in the financial affairs of Local Government councils. Dem also call on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and relevant anti-corruption agencies to institute and enforce appropriate sanctions against any governor or public official who continues to flout the constitutional financial autonomy of local governments.
Dem suggest say the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) should continue its oversight of Local Government finances and ensure strict adherence to its guidelines for the disbursement of funds to Local Governments. The Coalition also call on the National Assembly to intensify its oversight function to ensure that the constitutional provisions for Local Government autonomy are fully implemented and protected.
The CSOs emphasize say the financial independence of Local Governments should be accompanied by proper mechanisms to guarantee judicious use of resources for the benefit of the people at the grassroots. Dem urge all citizens, stakeholders, and public institutions to join dem in demanding justice, transparency, and full compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling.
