- Local Government Autonomy: A Turning Point for Grassroots Development
- Autonomy seen as key to addressing rural infrastructure, security, and governance
The President of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Hakeem Ambali, has called on the Federal Government to immediately implement the Supreme Court judgment granting autonomy to local governments.
Ambali in a chat with PUNCH described the judgment as a “landmark victory” for grassroots governance and a long-awaited opportunity to address challenges in rural development, security, and infrastructure.
“After over 21 years of advocacy, we’re grateful to see this autonomy realized,” Ambali said, explaining the three pillars of local government autonomy: fiscal, political, and administrative independence. He emphasized that direct funding of local governments, without interference from state governments, is critical to ensuring transparency and accountability.
Ambali criticized state governments for hijacking revenue sources meant for local councils, such as signage fees, tenement rates, and toll collections, and called for the restoration of local governments’ rights as outlined in the 1999 Constitution. “Funds must flow directly to local governments to enable them to provide basic amenities and services for the people,” he asserted.
The NULGE president also highlighted the urgent need to reform the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), which he argued have failed to conduct credible local government elections. “We propose the inclusion of representatives from unions, professional bodies, and youth organizations in the composition of SIECs to ensure impartiality,” Ambali added.
Despite the Supreme Court ruling six months ago, Ambali expressed frustration over the Federal Government’s delay in implementation, warning that the continued neglect of local councils undermines national development. “The rural-urban migration we’re witnessing is fueled by neglect at the grassroots level. Autonomy will enable councils to fix rural roads, address food security, and invest in alternative energy solutions,” he said.
Ambali further emphasized the importance of local councils in tackling insecurity, noting that most security challenges are local. “If councils are empowered, they can organize community policing, provide logistics, and gather intelligence to curb banditry and terrorism,” he explained.
He called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the judgment’s implementation, noting its potential to revive Nigeria’s economy, improve rural livelihoods, and strengthen community governance. “This autonomy isn’t just about local governments—it’s about the nation’s future,” Ambali concluded.
The Federal Government’s next steps on this critical issue could define the trajectory of grassroots governance in Nigeria, with stakeholders urging swift action to ensure lasting impact.
