President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered state governors across Nigeria to immediately comply with the Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local government councils, warning that continued disobedience will no longer be tolerated.
The president issued the directive during a recent meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja, where he stressed that funds meant for local governments must be released directly to the councils, in line with the apex court’s ruling.
According to Tinubu, the era of diverting or withholding local government allocations by state governments must end, describing the Supreme Court judgment as final and binding on all tiers of government.
“The Supreme Court has spoken clearly. Local governments must receive their funds directly. This administration will not allow any actions that undermine grassroots governance,” the president was quoted as saying.
Federal–State Tension Looms
The directive has reignited debate around federal–state relations, as several governors have been accused in the past of controlling local government funds through joint allocation accounts, a practice long criticised by civil society groups and governance experts.
Tinubu warned that persistent resistance from state governments could attract executive and administrative measures, signalling a tougher federal stance on enforcement.
Why the Decision Matters
The Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy is widely regarded as a major step toward:
- Strengthening grassroots development
- Enhancing accountability and transparency
- Reducing political interference at the local level
Analysts believe the president’s firm posture could significantly reshape governance at the third tier, especially as Nigeria heads toward the 2027 general elections.
Political Reactions Expected
While supporters of the move have praised Tinubu for backing judicial authority and decentralisation, critics argue that implementation may face resistance from governors who see the directive as an encroachment on state powers.
Political observers expect reactions from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and opposition parties in the coming days as discussions around compliance intensify.
For now, the message from the presidency is clear:
the Supreme Court ruling stands — and governors must comply.
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