FCT, Abuja – In a landmark move, the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has initiated legal action against all 36 state governors, bringing them before the Supreme Court over alleged misconduct in the administration of Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has filed the suit SC/CV/343/2024, pushing for full autonomy for LGAs. This move aims to safeguard the democratic process within local governments and ensure they operate independently from state interference.
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Prince Fagbemi’s legal challenge urges the Supreme Court to prevent governors from unlawfully dissolving democratically elected local government chairpersons. Additionally, he calls for direct funding to local governments from the Federation Account, eliminating the need for state intermediaries.
Fagbemi contends that the current practice of governors appointing Caretaker Committees to manage LGAs undermines the constitutionally guaranteed democratic system. He seeks a court order to stop governors from tampering with local government funds, arguing for an injunction to protect these resources.
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This case follows a precedent set by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who advocated for LGA autonomy in 2012. Jonathan emphasized the importance of robust local governments for national development and security. He argued that functioning local councils are crucial for addressing issues at the grassroots level, including the rising wave of insecurity.
As the nation watches, this legal battle could redefine the balance of power between state and local governments, potentially transforming the administrative landscape of Nigeria.
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