The Senate has voiced strong support for the Supreme Court’s ruling that grants financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local governments. Senate President Godswill Akpabio made this announcement on Tuesday, following a closed session where the Senate discussed a motion by Senator Tony Nwoye (LP-Anambra).

Nwoye’s motion raised concerns about attempts by certain state governments to pass laws that could undermine this ruling on local government autonomy. “We stand firmly behind the Supreme Court’s decision and its implications for local government autonomy,” Akpabio stated, noting potential conflicts with existing constitutional provisions related to the actions proposed by these states.

The Senate approved two of the six requests from Senator Nwoye, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring that funds allocated to local governments are used effectively to develop rural communities. Akpabio characterized this initiative as a key legacy for the current administration, the 10th Senate, and the National Assembly.

Additionally, the Senate urged all state and local governments to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling on funding allocation and usage. Lawmakers also pledged to amend relevant constitutional provisions to ensure full financial and administrative autonomy for local governments. Akpabio commended Senator Nwoye for raising the motion and assured that the National Assembly would take necessary steps to uphold local government autonomy nationwide.