President Bola Tinubu has commended the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming the constitutional rights of local governments, emphasizing its critical role in advancing effective governance at the grassroots level.
In a statement released on Thursday, Tinubu described the judgment as a reaffirmation of the Constitution and highlighted the importance of effective local government administration, which he noted has been a significant obstacle to national progress.
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“The Renewed Hope Agenda is about the people of this country, at all levels, irrespective of faith, tribe, gender, political affiliation, or any other artificial line they say exists between us,” Tinubu said.
“This country belongs to all of us. By virtue of this judgment, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions.”
He emphasized that the onus is now on local council leaders to deliver people-oriented services, ensuring that Nigerians at the grassroots feel the impact of governance. “What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses,” he added.
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Tinubu expressed confidence that the judgment would allow local officials elected by the people to control local resources transparently and effectively. “My administration instituted this suit because of our unwavering belief that our people must have relief, and today’s judgment will ensure that it will be only those local officials elected by the people that will control the resources of the people,” he stated.
The President praised the Supreme Court for upholding the constitutional rights of local governments, particularly regarding financial autonomy, describing the decision as historic and a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure for national development.
He also commended the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his diligent and patriotic efforts in this critical legal battle.
