A Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership, Rinsola Abiola, has praised the Supreme Court’s decision granting financial autonomy to local governments.
Abiola hailed the ruling as a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey, showcasing the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and citizens’ interests.
She commended President Tinubu’s dedication to democratic principles and his approach to governance, which prioritizes the needs of the people, according to Leadership.
Abiola encouraged citizens to participate in local government elections and hold their leaders accountable, ensuring transparency and improved service delivery.
Recall that the Supreme Court’s ruling directs the federal government to pay allocations directly to local government councils, exempting those without elected administrators.
This decision is expected to enhance local government administration and public service delivery at the grassroots level.
“For years, the effectiveness of local government administration has been a challenge and this has negatively impacted public service delivery at the grassroots.
“This ruling highlights the judiciary’s dedication to preserving the best interests of citizens and the rule of law as enshrined in our Constitution. Local governments are crucial to our democratic system and preserving their autonomy is essential to quickening the pace of development.”
“As evidenced by the bold decision to approach the Court, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is committed to enshrining true democratic principles and enabling government at all levels to better address the needs of our people.
“The President’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law is exemplary and highly commendable.”
She also called on citizens to take advantage of the ruling by participating in local government elections and by holding their leaders to account.
“I hereby urge all citizens to seize the moment by actively participating in community development efforts and local government elections, and also hold their leaders accountable.
Increased transparency and improved service delivery at the local level depend on active civic engagement. All hands must now be on deck to ensure that this ruling translates to improved local government administration in the 774 LGAs across the federation”, she said.
