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From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Supreme Court’s recent judgement granting autonomy to local governments has been hailed as a major victory for democracy and the people. Dr. Abdulkareem Alhassan, Lecturer of the Federal University, Lafia has applauded the judiciary for the landmark ruling, saying it is a testament to the independence and integrity of the judiciary.
According to Alhassan in an exclusive interview with Sun on Sunday stated, “This judgement is a victory for democracy and a testament to the fact that the judiciary is indeed the last hope of the common man. It is a clear indication that our democracy is maturing and that the rule of law is supreme.”
Sun Reports that the Supreme Court judgement, delivered on July 11, 2024, declared that local governments are autonomous and should be funded directly from the federation account. This ruling has been hailed as a major boost to grassroots development and democracy.
Alhassan who is an economist from Kwara State said the judgement is a welcome development that will go a long way in strengthening democracy at the grassroots level especially now that most states are yet to conduct their local councils elections especially in Kwara state.
“This judgement is a game-changer. It will enable local governments to function effectively and deliver dividends of democracy to the people especially in my state Kwara” he said.
He commended the judiciary for standing up to its responsibility and upholding the constitution. “The judiciary has once again demonstrated its independence and commitment to the rule of law. This judgement is a testament to the fact that our democracy is on the right track,” he said.
Alhassan also commended the lawyers and civil society organizations that fought for local government autonomy. “Their efforts have paid off, and this judgement is a victory for all those who believe in democracy and the rule of law,” he said.
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He called on the state governors to respect the judgement and aid help in the implementation without delay, saying that it is the only way to ensure that democracy is consolidated at the grassroots level. “The government should respect the judgement and ensure that local governments receive their fair share of the federation account,” he said.
He added that most of the developmental challenges faced in the country, ranging from insecurity, poverty, unemployment among others are grassroot problems. Thus, the local government autonomy will address the challenges and bring tremendous national development.
He further urged local government officials to be accountable and transparent in their dealings after winning elections, saying the elections will be more transparent as would be conducted by the national INEC effect from the president assent to the bill and that the judgement is an opportunity for them to serve the people better.
“Local government officials should be accountable and transparent in their dealings. They should use this opportunity to serve the people better and deliver dividends of democracy,” he said.
Alhassan also commended the lawyers and civil society organizations that fought for local government autonomy. “Their efforts have paid off, and this judgement is a victory for all those who believe in democracy and the rule of law,” he said.
He called on the state governors to respect the judgement and help in the implementation process without delay, saying that it is the only way to ensure that democracy is consolidated at the grassroots level. “The government should respect the judgement and ensure that local governments receive their fair share of the federation account,” he said.
He urged local government officials to be accountable and transparent in their dealings after winning elections, saying the elections will be more transparent as would be conducted by the National Independent Electoral Commission, INEC effect from the president assent to the bill and that the judgement is an opportunity for them to serve the people better.
