Connect with us

Politics

FG Wins Case Against State Governors Over Local Government Autonomy.

Published

on

By Zara Maisango

The Federal Government and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) have secured a significant legal victory against the State Governors in a dispute over the financial autonomy of Local Government joint accounts. The ruling, delivered by Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court on Monday, marks a pivotal moment in the quest for greater financial transparency and autonomy at the local government level.

The controversy began in June 2019 when the NFIU issued a set of guidelines aimed at curbing crime vulnerabilities associated with cash withdrawals from Local Government accounts by various State Governments. These guidelines were part of a broader effort to strengthen financial controls and combat money laundering. The NFIU’s directive required that transactions from joint accounts should not be honored by banks, and the accounts should only be used for receiving and subsequently transferring funds to Local Government accounts.

The Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) responded by suing the Federal Government and the NFIU, arguing that the guidelines infringed on the constitutional powers of the State Governments. The NGF contended that the 1999 Constitution grants states the authority to manage Local Government funds, and the NFIU’s interference was therefore unconstitutional.

Justice Ekwo, however, dismissed these claims, affirming the legality and necessity of the NFIU’s guidelines. He emphasized that the NFIU’s actions were in line with its mandate to combat money laundering and financial crimes. The ruling underscored the importance of financial transparency and accountability, especially in the management of public funds.

This decision has significant implications for the financial administration of Local Governments in Nigeria. By affirming the NFIU’s guidelines, the court has reinforced the principle that Local Governments should have direct control over their finances, free from undue interference by State Governments. This autonomy is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Local Governments in delivering public services and fostering grassroots development.

Reacting to the judgment, a spokesperson for the Federal Government hailed the decision as a victory for good governance and the rule of law. “This ruling is a major step forward in our efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds,” the spokesperson said. “It ensures that Local Governments can operate independently and are empowered to fulfill their responsibilities to the people.”

The Nigerian Governors Forum, meanwhile, expressed disappointment with the judgment but indicated that they would respect the court’s decision. “While we disagree with the ruling, we recognize the authority of the judiciary and will comply with the guidelines as stipulated,” a representative of the NGF stated.

The case has highlighted the ongoing tensions between different tiers of government in Nigeria over financial control and autonomy. It also underscores the critical role of the judiciary in interpreting the constitution and ensuring that all actions taken by government entities are in line with the law.

As Local Governments across Nigeria adjust to this new reality, the focus will now shift to how effectively they can manage their finances and deliver on their mandate to improve the lives of their constituents. The ruling not only affirms the autonomy of Local Governments but also sets a precedent for future interactions between federal, state, and local authorities in the financial sphere.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Politics

ADC Aspirant Hosts Special Ramadan Iftar for Islamic Scholars in Funakaye

Published

on

By Our Political Reporter

In the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing Funakaye Local Government Area, Kwami Local Government Area, and Gombe Local Government Area Federal Constituency, Engineer Ibrahim Musa Bajoga, has hosted a special Iftar for Islamic scholars.

The event, held on the 22nd day of Ramadan, brought together prominent Islamic clerics and scholars from various communities across Funakaye Local Government Area in Gombe State.

According to the organizers, the Iftar gathering was aimed at seeking blessings, spiritual guidance, and prayers from respected scholars during the sacred month, which Muslims consider a period of reflection, charity, and devotion.

Speaking during the gathering, Engineer Ibrahim Musa Bajoga said the initiative was organized to strengthen unity, promote religious values, and seek prayers for peace and progress in the constituency and the state at large.

He noted that the month of Ramadan provides an opportunity for leaders and community members to come together in humility and devotion, stressing the importance of spiritual support from scholars.

The Islamic clerics who attended the Iftar offered special prayers for peace, unity, and development in the constituency, Gombe State, and Nigeria as a whole.

Engineer Bajoga expressed appreciation to all the scholars and guests who honored the invitation, thanking them for their prayers and continued support.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting religious and community initiatives that promote harmony and collective progress, especially during significant religious occasions like Ramadan.

Observers say such gatherings have become a common feature of community engagement during Ramadan, where political and community leaders interact with religious scholars while seeking spiritual guidance.

The event ended with prayers for the prosperity of the people and peaceful coexistence across communities in the state.

Continue Reading

Politics

Amaechi Joins ADC, Flags Off Digital Membership Drive in Rivers

Published

on

By Our Political Reporter

Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has officially registered as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant political development that could reshape the party’s strength ahead of future elections in Nigeria.

Amaechi completed his membership registration on March 6, 2026, at his hometown Ubima in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, formally aligning himself with the party at the grassroots level.

The event was attended by party supporters, political associates, and community members who gathered to witness what many described as a defining moment for the ADC in the state.

During the ceremony, Amaechi also flagged off the party’s electronic membership registration (E-registration) platform, a move aimed at expanding the party’s membership base and making the registration process easier and more transparent for Nigerians across the country.

Speaking shortly after completing the registration, Amaechi emphasized the need for strong institutions, credible political participation, and renewed commitment to democratic values, noting that digital membership registration would help bring more Nigerians—especially young people—into the political process.

He said the ADC’s adoption of technology in its membership drive represents a new direction for political organization and grassroots mobilization in Nigeria.

As part of activities marking the occasion, Amaechi also commissioned the newly renovated ADC State Secretariat in Rivers State on March 7, 2026, describing the upgraded facility as a symbol of the party’s growing presence and readiness to play a stronger role in national politics.

Party leaders who spoke at the event expressed optimism that Amaechi’s entry into the ADC would strengthen the party’s structure in Rivers State and beyond, given his long-standing experience in governance and national politics.

Amaechi previously served as Governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015 and later as Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2023, making him one of the most influential political figures from the Niger Delta region.

Political observers say his move into the ADC could boost the party’s visibility and organizational capacity, particularly in the South-South region, where major political parties have traditionally dominated.

With the launch of the E-registration system and the commissioning of the party secretariat, ADC leaders say the party is positioning itself for broader national engagement and stronger grassroots participation as Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve.

Continue Reading

Politics

Appeal Court Set to Rule on Nine PDP Appeals On Monday

Published

on

By Our Political Reporter

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal is set to deliver judgment On, Monday, March 9, 2026, on nine appeals concerning the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a case widely seen as crucial to the party’s internal stability ahead of future political activities.

The judgment will be delivered at the headquarters of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria in Abuja, where party members, stakeholders and supporters are expected to gather to witness the proceedings.

In a statement signed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, supporters were encouraged to attend the court session to demonstrate solidarity with what he described as the “authentic executives” of the party elected during the PDP Ibadan National Convention.

According to the statement, the court’s decision on the nine appeals is expected to provide clarity on the leadership dispute that has generated significant debate within the party.

“The presence and support of party members and stakeholders will be highly valued and appreciated,” the statement noted, calling on PDP faithful to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the court proceedings.

Political observers say the ruling could have far-reaching implications for the future of the PDP, as it may determine the legitimacy of party executives and shape the direction of the opposition party in the coming months.

Security is expected to be tightened around the court premises in Abuja as supporters from different factions of the party are likely to converge to hear the verdict.

The PDP, one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties, has in recent months faced internal disputes over its leadership structure, with several appeals filed before the appellate court seeking legal interpretation and resolution.

All eyes will now be on the Court of Appeal as it delivers its judgment on the appeals that could significantly influence the party’s internal cohesion and political trajectory.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2017 Zox News Theme. Theme by MVP Themes, powered by WordPress.