In a recent statement, Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of a landmark Supreme Court ruling granting financial autonomy to local government areas, as reported by Nigerian Tribune.
Speaking to journalists following the court’s decision on Thursday, Senator Karimi highlighted the importance of the ruling in empowering local governments long marginalized by state authorities.
He credited President Tinubu for allowing the judiciary to independently adjudicate on the matter, noting the president’s commitment to Nigeria’s masses.
Senator Karimi stated that the ruling marked a crucial step towards restoring effective governance at the grassroots level.
The senator also outlined legislative plans to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s decision, including proposed amendments to transfer responsibility for local government elections from state bodies to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Senator Karimi acknowledged potential resistance from some state governors but assured the public of the National Assembly’s determination to oversee equitable distribution of funds among federal, state, and local governments.
Looking ahead, Senator Karimi stressed the need for capable leadership in local government administration.
“I thank Mr President for mustering the courage to do the right thing. Since 1999, the third tier of government, literally speaking, has been nonexistent. State governments treated them as appendages of the state governments.“
“No president has been able to change that. But, within one year, however, President Tinubu has returned the local government to its owners—the masses. Local governments, if well-operated, will ensure a better existence for our people. President Tinubu took due cognizance of this and courageously took the bull by the horns,” he said….Seë_Morë