spot_img

LG Autonomy: CSO Calls for NASS to Empower INEC to Conduct LG Polls

The United Nigerians Against Crimes (UNAC), a coalition of concerned citizens, has urged the National Assembly to enact laws empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections for the 774 local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria.

UNAC also faulted the recent Supreme Court judgement on LGAs financial autonomy as it is devoid of political autonomy.

Related Posts

In a statement issued by its Director General, Dr. Abdullahi Y. Bayawo, UNAC faulted the judgement as incomplete, unrealistic and in need of further examination.

Bayawo argued that granting financial autonomy to the LGAs without corresponding political autonomy is impractical.

The coalition argued that governors’ authority over the appointment of State Electoral officials, who conduct local government elections, diminishes the effectiveness of financial autonomy.

“The governor’s authority over the appointment of State Electoral Commissioners (sic), who conduct local government area elections, undermines the effectiveness of financial autonomy.

“We believe that true democracy can only be achieved when power is devolved and accountability is ensured,” read part of the statement.

UNAC called on the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to seek an urgent interpretation of the judgement at the Supreme Court to ensure it is both comprehensive and practical.

“We will not tolerate any governor who attempts to undermine this judgement. Members of UNAC will take decisive action against any governor who fails to respect the people’s right to local government autonomy.”

The coalition also reassured Nigerians to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that it will be monitoring all actions taken by governors in their respective states.

In a related development, the Senate on Thursday, passed a motion requesting the federal government to establish a new commission to oversee local government elections.

The chairman of the Senate finance committee, Senator Sani Musa of the (Niger East APC), moved the bill titled the “Independent Local Government Electoral Commission Act 2024.”

Last week, the Supreme Court ruled to prohibit state governments from using local government funds following a lawsuit filed by the federal government, which sought to curb governors’ control over local government affairs.

Send us tip

If you or someone you know has a lead, tip or personal experience about this report, our WhatsApp line is open and confidential for a conversation

Latest stories