President Bola Tinubu has hailed the Supreme Court’s judgment affirming the constitutional rights of local governments, emphasizing its critical role in advancing effective governance at the grassroots level.
Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement on Thursday said, Tinubu noted that a fundamental challenge to the nation’s advancement over the years had been, ineffective local government administration.
Tinubu emphasised that the onus was now on local council leaders to ensure that the broad spectrum of Nigerians living at that level are satisfied that they are benefitting 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 said.
The President said his administration instituted the suit because of its unwavering belief that Nigerians must have relief and the judgement would ensure that it would be only those local officials elected by the people that would control the resources of the people.
“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,” Tinubu’ said.
Tinubu pointed out that the provision of essential amenities and public goods has been hampered due to the weakening of local government areas.
He commended the Supreme Court for upholding the constitutional rights of local governments, particularly regarding financial autonomy.
He further described the decision as historic and a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure for national development.
Tinubu also praised the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his diligent and patriotic efforts in this critical legal battle.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the principles of governance and ensuring a performance-driven system that benefits every Nigerian.
