President Tinubu Welcomes Supreme Court Judgement Affirming Constitutional Rights of Local Governments

Abuja, Nigeria, July 11, 2024 — President Bola Tinubu has expressed his approval of the recent Supreme Court decision affirming the constitutional rights of local governments in Nigeria. The ruling supports the spirit, intent, and purpose of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly regarding the statutory rights of local governments.

President Tinubu remarked that ineffective local government administration has long been a fundamental challenge to the nation’s progress. He emphasized that governance at this critical level has been almost non-existent, hindering socio-political development.

The President called on local council leaders to ensure that Nigerians at the grassroots level benefit from people-oriented service delivery. “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. This country belongs to all of us. By virtue of this judgement, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions. What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses,” he stated.

President Tinubu highlighted that his administration initiated the suit due to a steadfast belief in providing relief to the people. He noted that the judgement ensures that only elected local officials will control local resources, promoting accountability and service delivery. “This judgement stands as a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people,” he added.

The President pointed out that the provision of essential amenities and public goods—such as road construction and maintenance, street lighting, drainage, parks, and community security—has suffered due to the undermining of local governments. He affirmed that the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold financial autonomy and other constitutional principles for local governments is historically significant and reinforces efforts to enhance Nigeria’s federal structure for national development.

President Tinubu commended the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his diligent and patriotic efforts on this important case.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the principles of governance, ensuring that all tiers of government function efficiently and effectively for every Nigerian.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)