The Supreme Court of Nigeria recently ruled that it is unconstitutional for state governments to control funds meant for local government areas (LGAs).
This judgment aims to enhance financial independence for LGAs, ensuring they can directly access their statutory allocations for grassroots development.
Over the last 16 years, state governments reportedly controlled over ₦23 trillion meant for LGAs, leading to poor development at the local level.
Many local facilities, like primary schools and health centers, remain underfunded and in disrepair.
Despite this landmark ruling, resistance persists.
Governors have historically opposed financial autonomy for LGAs, often diverting funds meant for grassroots development.
For instance, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde criticized the ruling, while some LG chairpersons in his state withdrew from national associations in solidarity with him.
This ruling has sparked calls for transparency, urging state governors to account for funds previously diverted.
Organizations like the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have demanded immediate accountability.
To promote transparency, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) launched a dashboard that tracks monthly allocations to states and LGAs, enabling citizens to monitor funds and demand accountability.
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